A wealthy property developer has appeared in court accused of vandalising a cherished Victorian pub in Brighton by smashing its historic tiles.
The Alleged Vandalism at The Montreal Arms
Charlie Southall, aged 46, is alleged to have employed a gang of builders to damage the locally listed green glaze tiles at the Montreal Arms pub in April 2022. The 160-year-old pub, built during a Brighton construction boom in the 1860s, was described in court as being 'cherished by the community', with the damage causing considerable local concern.
Council Enforcement and Missed Deadlines
In response to the damage, Brighton & Hove Council issued an enforcement notice ordering Southall to restore the tiles. The developer lodged an appeal against this order, but it was dismissed. He was subsequently given a final deadline of July 17, 2024, to complete the restoration work. However, the court heard that no work has taken place.
The distinctive tiles are believed to date from around 1927, following the merger of the Portsmouth United brewery and Brighton's Rock brewery.
Court Proceedings and Adjournment
Southall appeared at Lewes Crown Court on Friday charged with breaching the council's enforcement notice. The case involved legal discussions between the court, the council, and the defendant, details of which cannot currently be reported.
The judge adjourned the case until next month for further proceedings.
