Pub Damaged by Lorry Collision Expected to Reopen in 2025

The new owners have indicated that a pub, which was severely damaged by a lorry collision last month, is anticipated to reopen during the latter half of 2025. The Three Fishes, located in Bayston Hill, Shropshire, had been acquired by Black Country Ales shortly prior to the incident. Managing director Graham Manwaring described the crash as “very unfortunate” but affirmed that the occurrences had not altered the company’s intentions for the establishment, which he aims to develop into a quality real ale venue. A planning application seeking permission to repair and extend the premises was filed on Friday. James Duerden, the former landlord, expressed his satisfaction upon learning of the pub’s planned return. Mr. Manwaring noted that the company’s plans had become more intricate due to the collision, partly owing to the necessity of engaging with insurers and loss adjusters. Following consultations with structural engineers, he indicated that a greater portion of the structure would require demolition to ensure its safety. Nevertheless, he confirmed that the intention is to maintain the front facade of the pub looking “pretty much the same as it does,” while expanding the rear section, partly to accommodate a new cellar. Mr. Manwaring stated that, contingent on planning permission, the pub’s reopening is projected for “worst case scenario in the last quarter” of 2025, with a possibility of an earlier date if circumstances permit. He expressed his hope that the situation would ultimately represent “one step backwards and a couple forward” for the establishment. Mr. Duerden had been in the process of transferring ownership of the pub to Black Country Ales when the collision occurred in the early hours of 11 November. He has since taken employment at The Beeches, also situated within the village, concurrently seeking another pub to manage. He remarked, “I’ve got the bug for it and definitely want to do it again.” Having revisited the pub since the incident to retrieve some belongings, he described the condition of the premises as “heartbreaking.” However, as a patron who had frequented the pub “for a long time,” he also conveyed his delight at the news that Black Country Ales intends to restore it. Follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.