Friends of the Iron Duke are reaching out to raise awareness of the plight of the Great Yarmouth pub, now fallen into disrepair.
The beautiful Art Deco heritage pub is now owned by the Great Yarmouth Preservation Trust, but they seem reluctant to market the pub as a pub.
It was not a failed business, say the Friends. It was acquired by corporate giant Bourne Leisure whose sole intention was to demolish it. It was not a pub no-one wanted, but it was a pub no one could buy. In need of major restoration work, it is, however, a stunning example of an interwar pub.
With original bars and features, it was a busy much loved public house. “The history attached to the pub is wonderful,” say the FRiends. “The Iron Duke must be given its chance to re-open.”
The Iron Duke in its heyday. Photograph: courtesy Lacons archives
It was the prestigious Twentieth Century Society’s building of the month last August. Featured in the Observer, Private Eye, the Society of Architectural Historians collaborated with the Friends to write another feature. The pub was also featured in the Sainsbury Centre’s Art Deco by the Sea Exhibition.
“All of this will be a wonderful springboard for anyone wanting to bring the heritage pub back to life.,” say the Friends.
Anyone who is able to help the Friends in their quest to get the pub re-opened can contact them via their website.
• Read more » Roger Protz: Battle Royal to save Art Deco gem.
