Action taken to bring old Braithwaite pub into use (From Keighley News)

Action taken to bring old Braithwaite pub into use

10:00am Saturday 9th March 2013 in Keighley By David Knights

Action is being taken to bring a derelict pub in Braithwaite back into use.

Councillor Keith Dredge wants the former Timothy Taylors watering hole in Braithwaite Avenue to be either reopened or demolished.

He is spearheading attempts to encourage the current owners to sell the building or consider alternative uses.

The eyesore property lies opposite a four-year-old complex that comprises Merlin Top and Phoenix schools, as well as the Kingfisher Community Centre.

The pub was for many years known as the Timothy Taylors, then more than a decade ago became the Braithwaite Tavern.

Coun Dredge, who represents Keighley West on Bradford Council, said the building had been empty for at least eight years. “He added: “It’s an eyesore that’s a magnet for vandalism, fly-tipping and anti-social behaviour.

“They put a ‘for sale’ sign up and straight away someone put a brick through it.

“You’ve got a brand new school opposite and pensioner bungalows with nice gardens at the side.”

Coun Dredge said the land the pub stands on is owned by Bradford Council, and the original owner was given a 99-year lease.

He added: “Someone has been paying ground rent to Bradford Council for years.

“The pub chain that owns it says it’s looking at what to do with it. It has got a 50-year lease so it doesn’t have to be in a hurry to do anything.”

Coun Dredge said Bradford Council had made contact with the owners through its asset management department and the Keighley area co-ordinator’s office.

He added: “Things are moving to get it back into use or demolish it. There are all sorts of possibilities, anything from housing to a retail outlet. It’s a blank sheet of paper.”

Coun Dredge set his sights on the pub while investigating the number of empty houses in Braithwaite with fellow ward councillors.