THE DIMSDALE HOTEL - Newcastle under Lyme

"FIGHT TO PROTECT ART DECO NUGGET"

CONSERVATIONISTS have launched a campaign to protect a pub from being demolished.
Newcastle Civic Society and the Potteries Pub Preservation Group narrowly failed in a bid to get the Sportsman pub, formerly the Dimsdale Hotel, at Dimsdale, Newcastle, listed by English Heritage. Now they are backing residents in their fight against the controversial plans put forward by burger giants McDonald's.

Potteries Pub Preservation Group spokesman Mervyn Edwards said the pub - known for decades as The Dimsdale - should be retained because of its art deco significance. He said: "At one time it was a very respected and esteemed pub. We thought it was architecturally pleasing enough to merit possible listing. "Unfortunately, it was not thought to be of sufficient architectural importance and obviously we are very disappointed. Both of our societies wish to see it preserved and we hope residents pull through and win their campaign."

Protesters in the Dimsdale area have threatened a campaign of action if the proposals by McDonald's are given the go-ahead at the next meeting of the Borough Council planning committee. They fear it will lead to a loss of value on their homes and cause traffic congestion.

A spokesman for Newcastle Borough Council said: "The proposals would involve the demolition of the pub. We have had discussions with McDonald's and indicated we would want the company in the first instance to look at retaining some part of the building."

A spokesman for McDonald's said they were considering alternatives to demolition, but they were not their preferred option.
(Extract courtesy of Sentinel newspaper 17/07/1999)

The planning application was approved and The Dimsdale Hotel was demolished.