The owners of the Crooked House pub say they will go through with an order to rebuild the property — but in a different location.
The pub caught fire in a suspected arson attack in August last year. Days later, it was demolished.
Earlier this year the owners were ordered by South Staffordshire Council to rebuild the landmark, and were given three years to do so.
Owner ATE Farms Ltd says that rebuilding the pub in the same spot would “not provide a sustainable community facility”.
It said: “In its current location, should it be rebuilt, there is no doubt that there would be a huge amount of interest in the first few months. However, this does not translate to continued and sustained interest to make the building work as pub going forward.”
It added that rebuilding the inn at a new location would give it “a real chance of success as a community asset”. An appeal against the rebuilding order is due to be heard in July.
