Britain's 'Wonkiest Pub' Remains a Ruin Three Years After Mysterious Fire

Three years after a suspicious fire and subsequent illegal demolition, the site of The Crooked House, once a beloved and uniquely tilted pub in Himley, Staffordshire, remains a derelict wasteland plagued by fly-tipping and antisocial behavior. The establishment, known internationally for its distinctive lean caused by underground mining, was sold in August 2023 to a company owned by Carly and George Taylor, who operate a nearby quarry and landfill site. Just nine days after the acquisition, the pub caught fire under unclear circumstances. Less than 48 hours later, the remaining structure was demolished by the Taylors' firm, ATE Farms, sparking widespread public outrage.

South Staffordshire District Council issued an order for ATE Farms to rebuild the 18th-century pub, a designated building of local importance, brick by brick within three years. However, this order has been stalled due to a parallel criminal investigation into the fire. The Taylors and four other individuals were arrested on suspicion of arson and remain under investigation. Staffordshire Police submitted a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in February, but as of seven months later, the file is still with the CPS, and those arrested continue to be released under investigation.

The CPS stated that it is working with police to clarify evidence but could not provide a timescale for any charging decisions. The company that was ordered to rebuild the pub, ATE, has since gone into liquidation, leaving £1.2 million in debts. This development raises further questions about who would be responsible for rebuilding the pub and how the costs would be covered, even if the legal proceedings are resolved.

The prolonged delay has left locals and former regulars enraged. The site has become a magnet for illegal dumping, with furniture, car seats, builder's waste, and tires strewn across the property. Campaigners express frustration with the slow pace of justice and the apparent lack of progress from authorities. Paul Turner, leader of the Save The Crooked House campaign, believes authorities are "not bothered" and that the community's anger has not subsided. Local MP Mike Wood has previously described the situation as making him feel "sick to the stomach."

Residents living nearby have reported increased antisocial behavior and fear for their safety, with one local stating that CCTV cameras have been installed outside their home due to the frequency of incidents. Campaigner Ian Sandall voiced his frustration, stating that while they continue to pressure police, the CPS, and local officials, there is a lack of communication and progress. The Taylors previously purchased another traditional pub, the Sarah Mansfield Country Inn, three years before the fire, only to strip its interior, leaving it vacant and for sale.