Demolition of historic Harwich pub after fire refused

The Hanover Inn, in Church Street, Harwich, was damaged beyond repair following a blaze in June 2022. 

Investigators from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service were unable to find a definite cause of the inferno due to the excessive damage. 

Tendring Council received a planning application at the beginning of the year, asking to demolish the building, as the owners saw it as the only way to bring new life to the place. 

Destroyed - The Hanover Inn after the tragic fire in June 2022 (Image: Essex Fire Service)

Landlord Dave Todd told the Standard he saw the application as the start of the pub's comeback. 

Some residents agreed with the proposal and said they were happy to see progress two years after the tragedy. 

Michael Pountney said: “De-listing the Hanover, whether right or wrong, has made progress possible towards the reconstruction of this historic part of Harwich.  

“We, as owners of one of the adjacent properties, urge the committee, if it is minded to grant the demolition application, to set a clear timetable for the work to be done so that the street can be re-opened, work on adjacent buildings can start, and an ugly eyesore be got rid of.” 

Optimistic - Landlord Dave Todd was hoping to make a new start (Image: Hanover Inn)

Bu the Harwich Society criticised the plans. 

In a statement, the society said: “The fire damaged Hanover Inn has lost its listed status and in its current condition detracts from the conservation area, but we regret that a more positive proposal linked to a sympathetic rebuild is not forthcoming two years on from the fire.  

“Approval of this application will result in an uncertain future for this key site in the conservation area.” 

However, the planning application has been refused. 

It said: “The proposal would result in the loss of a significant building located within the conservation area of Harwich.  

“It has been confirmed that the building comprises of a number of historic elements which are important to the protected area and nearby buildings which would be lost as part of the proposal.  

“The application fails to include information on how these historic elements will be retained or protected, as well as further details on the demolition process and redevelopment of the site.” 

There were also fears demolition would have an impact on the stability of surrounding listed properties.