Work has begun to demolish an eyesore pub building in Meir that has been a magnet for vandals.

It is part of the first phase of a multi-million pound regeneration programme that will transform the estate into a more attractive residential area.

The semi-derelict Thorley pub has been empty for more than a year. During that time, the building has been a hot spot for anti-social behaviour and a cause for concern for local residents.

RENEW North Staffordshire and its strategic housing partner in the area, Great Places Housing Group, have acquired the Thorley pub and once the building has been demolished, the cleared site will form part of Phase 1 of the Meir Area Regeneration Framework (ARF)  - a comprehensive programme of improvements that will provide better housing and amenities in Meir.

Feedback after a series of consultation events last summer indicated that 90 per cent of residents supported the regeneration plans for Meir.

Councillor Adrian Knapper, the city council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and spokesman for RENEW, said: “Demolishing the pub will signal to residents in Meir that we are moving forward with our plans to regenerate the area - and that RENEW and its partners are listening to residents and responding to their hopes and their concerns.                      

Fred Rushton, a member of Meir Steering Group and a life-long Meir resident, said: ”There will undoubtedly be a big cheer from local people when it starts to come down – most will be very happy to see it go.

“We have been waiting for this regeneration scheme to happen for a long time, and it is nice to see that it is finally on its way.”

The ARF includes plans to provide:

    * a range of housing types that respond to the needs of local people
    * improvements to the road layout to give residents better access to a range of facilities
    * a new community square and community venue
    * environmental improvements, including a major alleygating scheme that aims to enhance security for householders. 

Stoke South MP Rob Flello said: “While it’s sad to see the loss of pubs across our city, I am delighted that this local eyesore is at last being bulldozed.

"This will make way for the ongoing renewal of the Meir.  It is vital that local residents of fully involved with regeneration of their community and I will continue to fight on their behalf.”