The Marble Arch, a Manchester pub that draws visitors from around the world, is battling for its future as plans for a 17-storey tower block next door move forward.
The grade II-listed boozer on Rochdale Road has been serving pints since it was built in 1888, when Queen Victoria sat on the throne and Manchester was rapidly industrialising.
Objections from pub and heritage groups
The McGoff Group wants to build a tower with 153 flats next to the pub. The Marble Arch has submitted a detailed objection against the plans, alongside the Victorian Society and the Campaign for Real Ale.
Councillors in Manchester have been recommended to approve the plans at a crucial meeting on October 22.
One member of staff at the pub said today (October 16) that the pub is in a 'battle' for its future. They pointed out that the Marble Arch has already endured 'years' of major roadworks taking place on the roads around the historic drinking den.
Staff and campaigners speak out
"We get tourists coming from all over the world and they get sent here," they said.
"These plans are going to be really tough, but we're fighting it and doing everything we can.
"We have generations of families drinking here, dads and grandads and sons. You don't get places like this anymore and it's something we want to keep going."
Visuals of the proposals show the building towering over the Marble Arch, described as being 'overbearing and oppressive' in the pub's objection.
Concerns over structural damage
The pub's letter to Manchester City Council raised fears about potential 'damage' being caused to the historic building from any demolition or construction activity next to it.
It added: "A detailed assessment has not been provided demonstrating the likely vibration, settlement or structural impacts upon the Marble Arch, its cellars or boundary walls."
Manchester council itself accepted that 'harm would occur to the setting of a designated heritage asset' if the plans are approved.
Housing need and economic benefits
The Victorian Society said it 'has concerns' about the development proposals.
It said in its objection: "The historic form and character of the Marble Arch is distinct and recognisable; it contributes well to its setting and to Manchester's historic character. The tower is not sympathetic to the pub.
"The Society understands the need for more housing and that this would bring some public benefit. The absence of affordable housing reduces the public benefits."
Despite the concerns, approving the tower would add to the growing need for housing in a popular part of Manchester city centre. The council's planning summary said the scheme would be a 'key economic driver' for the city.
While it accepted that 'some visual harm' would be caused as a result of the building going up, this would be 'outweighed by the substantial public and regeneration benefits that the proposal would deliver.'
