DEMOLITION has begun on a Wirral pub after plans for a care home on the site were approved.
The proposal for a three-storey 60 bed care home on The Pensby Hotel’s land was previously rejected by Wirral councillors last year.
However this was overturned and developers were given Government approval for the scheme in September.
Demolition of the Pensby Hotel underway. Pictures and video: Craig Manning
Today, residents of Pensby came out to watch the demolition begin with mixed emotions.
Phyllis Ebry, who has lived in Pensby for 55 years, said: "I think the pub has had its day.
"It was a shame to see it in the state it was."
Helen Barlow, a resident of Pensby for 43 years, said: "It's such a shame.
"I grew up and spent my teenage years in there.
"However, I think a care home will be good for the community."
Donna Hamilton said: "I'm glad it is going.
"It was getting a bit of an eyesore and I am much happier for it to be a care home then what it is was".
Due to planning reforms in 2014, local authorities can no longer reject applications to demolish private property, when located outside a conservation zone; only insist the demolition is done safely.
Earlier this year, ward councillor Phill Brightmore told the Globe: "I am shocked and saddened the Planning Inspectorate overruled the Council's decision.
"This result shows scant regard for the community's wishes, or the amenity of those living on Ridgewood Drive, Northridge Road and Southridge Road.
"Once again, local decisions have been brushed aside by a distant inspectorate and developers who appear to know how to game the system."
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