Call for Action at Blaze-Hit Bradford Pub

by Emma Wilkinson

Allerton residents are calling for tougher action to be taken after fire fighters had to put out another blaze at The Old Kings Head pub last night.

The Grade II listed pub, on Cote Lane on the outskirts of the village, has been derelict for over five years and has gained a reputation as an anti-social hotspot.

The fire service have been called to the building a number of times over the past few months and residents allege that break-ins and thefts at the pub are commonplace.  

Pensioner Anne Dickens, who has lived next door to the pub for the past three years, claims youths hanging around the pub have stolen from her and threatened her when she said she would report them.

She said: “I worry about these fires when I’m at work because I’m so close to the pub and sparks can fly. At least when I’m here, I know I can get out.”

A sign on the front of the pub, displayed on behalf of B2 Property Group says ‘Coming soon – exclusive development of new homes’.

But Ms Dickens said: “There have been plans to develop that pub ever since I moved in and there have been no signs of change. I just hope they do something soon because that will stop all the problems we have.”