Historic pub objects to plan for 17-storey tower nearby
LDRSA historic Manchester pub that has drawn visitors from around the world is fearing for its future amid plans for a large tower to be built nearby.
The Marble Arch has been serving pints on Rochdale Road since 1888 when Queen Victoria sat on the throne and the city was rapidly industrialising.
Plans by the McGoff Group to build a 17-storey tower with 153 flats next to the Grade II-listed pub have prompted concerns about the visual impact and the pub's continued existence.
Manchester City Council said it accepted "some visual harm" would be caused as a result of the building going up, but would be "outweighed by the substantial public and regeneration benefits that the proposal would deliver".
Councillors in Manchester have been recommended to approve the plans at a meeting on 22 October.
The McGoff Group has been approached for a comment.
Meanwhile, the Marble Arch has submitted a detailed objection against the plans, alongside the Victorian Society and Campaign for Real Ale.
One member of staff at the pub told the Local Democracy Reporting Service that the pub is in a "battle" for its future.
They said it had already endured "years" of major roadworks.
"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 granddads and sons. You don't get places like this anymore and it's something we want to keep going."
Stephen McKay/GeographImages of the proposals show the building towering over the Marble Arch, described as being "overbearing and oppressive" in the pub's objection.
The pub's letter to the council also raised fears about potential "damage" being caused from any demolition or construction activity next to it.
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."
The council's planning summary said the scheme would be a "a key economic driver" for the city and would help provide housing capacity.
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