Imagine your local pub, the heart of your community, facing demolition to make way for houses. That's the stark reality for the residents of Blacko village, who are fighting tooth and nail to save their beloved Cross Gaits Inn.
This isn't just about losing a building; it's about losing a piece of their history and a vital social hub. A property developer has submitted plans to convert the Grade II-listed Cross Gaits Inn, a building steeped in local heritage, into a large family home. Not only that, but they also propose building a completely new house on what is currently the pub's car park.
The Cross Gaits Community Pub Group, a dedicated band of local residents, isn't giving up without a fight. They've presented a compelling case to Pendle Council, arguing that the pub can be a viable business. Their vision involves a revitalized pub offering more than just drinks – think community events, perhaps incorporating other commercial ventures to maximize its potential and serve the local community in multiple ways. They envision a space that fosters connection and provides essential services.
But here's where it gets controversial... The developer, John Kay, firmly believes the pub is simply not a viable business. He points to the fact that the Cross Gaits Inn has been sitting empty since 2023 as evidence. He argues that renovating the existing building and constructing a new home on the already-developed car park land is the most sensible course of action.
Chartered surveyor David Broschomb disagrees wholeheartedly. He stated definitively that "The village community wishes this property to remain as a public house," and that "the best commercial use of this property is as a public house – but to use its maximum potential with other commercial enterprises and as a benefit to the community." He sees the pub as much more than just a business; he sees it as a vital community asset.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about the bottom line; it's about the intangible value a pub brings to a community. It's a place for neighbors to connect, for friendships to blossom, and for local traditions to be preserved.
Kay's previous attempts to change the use of the pub have already been rejected – twice, in fact! He even appealed those rejections, but to no avail. Despite these setbacks, he's persevered, submitting yet another application.
The council was initially scheduled to make a decision this month, but they've now deferred the decision until February at Kay's request. This delay allows him more time to review the community group's report and prepare a response. Currently, there are 36 formal objections to the latest plan.
The future of the Cross Gaits Inn hangs in the balance. The Pendle Council's decision next month will determine whether this historic pub is given a chance to thrive, or whether it will be lost forever to residential development.
This situation raises some important questions: What role do local pubs play in our communities today? Should historical significance outweigh economic viability? And ultimately, who gets to decide the fate of a community landmark? Let us know what you think in the comments below. Do you agree with the community group that the pub can be viable with the right approach, or do you believe the developer's assessment is more realistic?
