Express & Star

Last orders at Bilston's Hop Pole pub as demolition looms

A pub is to close and will be knocked down, making way for plans to improve a town’s outdoor market.

Published
Last updated
The Hop Pole in Market Street, Bilston, will be demolished to make way for the outdoor market to be expanded

The Hop Pole Inn, next to Bilston’s market, will be demolished under a proposal by Wolverhampton council.

Marstons has agreed to surrender its lease of the pub, which is owned by the council.

Cabinet member for city economy, Councillor John Reynolds, said: “We are delighted to have reached this agreement with Marston’s over the Hop Pole Inn.

“It will enable the land to be better utilised for the benefit of the town and, in particular, the outdoor market.

“It is part of the wider regeneration of the area to deliver new homes, new jobs and more investment.

“It demonstrates our commitment to Bilston and ensures it will continue to be a thriving area.”

The pub in Market Street was built in the early 1970s.

The council said it has ‘limited use’ but will continue to trade until it is taken down.

A planning application is due to be submitted for knocking it down in May.

The work will provide the opportunity to improve links with the bus station and the Midland Metro once completed, the council said.

The outdoor market will continue to operate during the demolition works.

The proposal forms part of the wider regeneration of Bilston.

Marston’s recently opened the White Rabbit pub in Bilston Urban Village.

A pub spokesman said: “We are currently in consultation with the local council in regards to a planned demolition date. Until that stage, the pub is open and will trade business as usual.”