Manchester Pub Historian

We contributed to a short slot on Allan Beswick's Beswick at Breakfast show on BBC Radio Manchester this morning at about 07:40. Listen here and fast-forward to 01:35:50 (or indeed, enjoy the whole show).

Allan Beswick. (c) bbc.
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"The future of one of Manchester's most historic pubs is in doubt. Campaigners fear that the Crown & Cushion on Corporation Street could be demolished to make way for the new Co-Op Headquarters. The Co-Op's told us that in its talks with the pub's owners - Holt's - it hasn't bought it yet..."

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Mr Beswick makes the point that losing at least three pubs (Ducie Bridge and Angel (Beer House) must also be at risk), New Century Hall, Ashton House, many more buildings and businesses, and possibly part of historic Angel Meadow, would be a small price to pay for keeping a huge employer in the area. Wouldn't a little responsible preservation of at least some our history be a small price to pay for the Co-Operative Behemoth? We've already seen how redevelopment (sic) of Ancoats and New Cross has wiped out communities, replacing them with very little.

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The ethical Co-Operative had this to say: "The Co-Op's vision for the twenty acres site which includes the Co-Operative's existing head office complex and its new head office development will provide a sustainable, regenerated area that will produce in the region of 10,000 jobs."

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Mr Beswick confirmed that the Crown & Cushion is indeed within the regeneration area and the Council said: "The Co-Operative can confirm that it has been in dialogue with Holt's regarding the pub with a view to bringing the site into the Master Plan."

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