Death of a pub

AN HISTORIC Broadwater pub looks doomed, after planning councillors gave permission for it to be bulldozed.

The Wig and Pen, which has been part of the street scene in Wigmore Road for 78 years, will be demolished and 12 flats built in its place, after the decision by Worthing Council's planning commitee on Tuesday.

Simon Dowling, former landlord, had called on locals to support his fight to keep the alehouse open but their protests failed.

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Almost 50 letters of objection were sent to planners, along with a 210-signature petition.

Representatives from the Campaign for Real Ale also opposed the demolition.

Mr Dowling, who left the pub a month ago, said: "It is very disappointing. I didn't think it would actually happen. That was my local pub before I took over as manager and I still go in there and have a drink with the customers, who have become my friends.

"It's very sad."

One letter of objection said: "It is essential that we preserve the few historical areas of Worthing that remain. The Wig and Pen public house belongs to Worthing's heritage and serves as the core of our community, where local residents can meet and feel part of the community, therefore the scheme can only have a negative effect on the area in the eyes of local residents."

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People who live nearby also objected, arguing that flats would create traffic problems, especially in Leigh Road.

The pub used to be owned by former Newcastle and Arsenal striker Malcolm Macdonald. He ran the pub from 1985 to 1987 and changed its name from the Wigmore Arms to the Far Post. When he left, it reverted to its original name and then, finally, the Wig and Pen. It was originally designed for the Rock Brewery of Brighton and named after the 6th Baron Wigmore.