A PUB threatened with demolition could be named as a nominated asset of community value.

Developers are hoping to demolish the Blackburne Arms, in Orford, in order to build a three-storey block of 52 retirement apartments for the over 55s.

But the Friends of Blackburne Arms, recently formed in response to plans to demolish the Orford Green watering hole, have lodged a counter bid with Warrington Borough Council in order to designate the site as an asset of community value.

This would give the listed building – which dates back to 1928 – added protections against redevelopment.

Warrington Guardian:

How the block of flats could look

In a statement, friends group chairman Mark Moran said: "The Blackburne Arms significantly contributes to the wellbeing of the local community and therefore should be listed as an asset of community value.

"The asset’s historic use as a public house contributes to a sense of community spirit and identity – the pub offers a real family welcome.

"In times of adversity, the patrons of pub are well known to provide specific help, support and financial assistance to any families who are in need or have lost a loved one.

"Some members have been frequenting this public house since the 1950s, a couple of whom got married here and still come back to this very day."

Previous plans to build 63 apartments and two bungalows on the Blackburne Arms site were scrapped in June.

Dozens of residents have already objected to the latest scheme, which is currently being considered for planning permission by the council.

Warrington has only eight designated assets of community value, many of which are pubs – including the Sportsmans Arms in Penketh, the Raven Inn in Glazebury, the Ring O’Bells in Stretton, the Star Inn in Lymm and the Chapel House Inn in Burtonwood.

The remaining three such sites are Longbarn Bowling Green, the former Lloyds Bank in Lymm and the allotments on Red Lane in Stockton Heath.