SWANLEY: Demolition of 'iconic landmark' leaves residents distraught (From News Shopper)

SWANLEY: Demolition of 'iconic landmark' leaves residents distraught

2:47pm Wednesday 1st September 2010 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
• Comments(8)

THE demolition of an “iconic landmark” has worried residents who fear their heritage is being destroyed.

The Bull pub in London Road, Swanley, has been demolished after Sevenoaks District Council granted planning permission to Whitbread PLC on July 30 to build a Premier Inn hotel and Beefeater restaurant on the derelict site.

The building, which was most recently Deja Vu nightclub, had become dogged with controversy after a series of crime-related incidents including arson and assault.

David Harrison, 70, of Park Way, Wilmington, told News Shopper he remembers The Bull from when he was a child.

The grandfather-of-two said: “I can remember passing The Bull on my way to Ramsgate for my annual summer holidays 60 years ago.

“I’m so disappointed that an iconic landmark has been wiped away.

“A bit of our heritage has gone.”

Bus driver Jim Halford, of London Road, Swanley, says he is worried the demolition will be detrimental to Swanley’s history.

The 61-year-old said: “We’re losing our heritage.

“I am deeply concerned for our history being demolished bit by bit in the name of progress.

“We have to keep our history for the future generation so they know where they come from.”

Councillor Robert Woodbridge of Swanley Town Council was consulted on the development but says he is sad it has been scrapped.

He said: “It’s a shame to see it go but hopefully the hotel will bring some employment into the community.”

The development is set to be finished early next year.