One of the last flat-iron pubs in Liverpool is set to be turned into student flats, in a move that has angered ale enthusiasts and city councillors.
The historic Mount Vernon on Irvine Street is set to be the latest building in the city to be renovated to become student accommodation, with Breck Road-based JD Estates applying to give the original pub a makeover.
The development will see an extra two-storeys being added on the building, along with a four storey extension, with the bar’s basement being turned into a common room.
The plan to turn the Mount Vernon, located near Liverpool Royal Hospital, has received criticism from the chair of Liverpool and Districts Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA). Geoff Edwards.
He said: ‘’The branch regrets the potential loss of yet another iconic inner-city pub, the Mount Vernon, which is boarded up and being earmarked for development as flats and apartments. It seems to have fallen victim to the almost never ending development of this part of Liverpool. ”
Labour city councillor Nick Small also voiced his concern over the proposals. He told JMU Journalism: “All of us central ward councillors are opposed to the closure.
“Three or four pubs in this area have closed down in the last few years, so we want to work with CAMRA to oppose the redevelopment so Mount Vernon reopens as a pub and remains an anchor for the community. Student accommodation can regenerate areas but I’ve doubts whether this particular building would provide quality flats for students.’’
Mr Edwards encouraged those who are against the planning approval of the pub to raise their concerns with Liverpool City Council.