Owners of Demolished Crooked House Pub Seek to Rebuild on New Site

This July, an appeal is set to be heard in response to South Staffordshire council’s order for the former Crooked House pub to be rebuilt. The iconic inn, known for its unique, leaning structure, was destroyed in a suspected arson attack last year. Now, ATE Farms Ltd, the company that owned the pub, has proposed a plan to reconstruct the Crooked House on a different site.

The Crooked House, which began as a farmhouse in 1765, gained fame for its wonky appearance caused by mining activities in the area. After the devastating fire in August 2023 and subsequent demolition, the owners were mandated to rebuild on the original site. However, ATE Farms argues that rebuilding it in the same location would not ensure its sustainability as a community facility.

According to appeal documents, the company has a “genuine and practical” solution to rebuild the Crooked House on a nearby plot of land also owned by them. Stephen Levrant, a heritage architecture expert, highlighted the complexities of reconstructing the inn, emphasizing the challenges of its unique design with gravity acting differently due to the building’s tilt.

Sparking Hope for Local Community

The proposed new location offers the opportunity for the Crooked House to thrive as a community asset. ATE Farms believes that relocating the pub will provide it with a real chance of success in the long term, rather than just initial curiosity post-reconstruction. The company envisions the inn serving as a sustainable and cherished establishment for the local community.

Following the suspected arson attack last year, which led to six arrests but no prosecutions, the future of the Crooked House has been a topic of interest and debate. The upcoming appeal will determine whether the council’s order for reconstruction on the original site will stand, or if the owners’ proposal for a new location will be approved.

As the hearing approaches, hopes are high for the revival of the beloved Crooked House pub. Its potential return on a new site has sparked optimism within the local community, who eagerly await the decision that could lead to the reconstruction of this historic and quirky establishment.