Pot, kettle black over historic buildings? Public house decision sets a 'dangerous precedent' for the future of Preston's heritage, says lobbyist

Glenn Cookson said he felt the Tithebarn decision set a 'dangerous precedent' for the future of Preston's heritage.

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Coun Martyn Rawlinson

The former pub, while not a listed building, has seen a pub in some shape or form on the site since the 1700s.

Mr Cookson criticised the deputy leader for his comments about the Tithebarn and heritage buildings, saying: "From the start, Preston City Council never took our proposal seriously.

"During a meeting, Coun Martyn Rawlinson, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Resources, actually laughed when the idea of saving the building was raised, joking that he'd prefer to turn it back into a pub so he could drink there.

"We found that comment incredibly dismissive - it showed a complete lack of respect for our grassroots community effort and for the heritage of this 300-year-old building.

"Our proposal to transform it into a Heritage Centre deserved proper consideration, not ridicule."

He went on to express his concern over what the city council planned to do about other heritage buildings in its own ownership, Lancastria House, the nearby former Tea Bar buildings and the former Larder building opposite the Town Hall.