Repair Work Underway at Birmingham's 'Oldest Pub' After Six-Year Closure
Essential repair work has commenced at Erdington's historic Lad in the Lane pub, a building that dates back to around 1400 and is considered one of Birmingham's oldest public houses. The pub closed permanently in 2019 and has been in a state of worsening disrepair for the past six years, culminating in a fire in 2024 that further highlighted its decay.
Community Concerns Prompt Action
Local residents have expressed significant concerns about the condition of the derelict site, prompting Councillor Basharat Mahmood to intervene. The Pype Hayes councillor confirmed that the owner has started repairs to fix leaking roofs in a bid to prevent additional damage to the Grade II-listed structure.
"I've spoken with the council's planning enforcement team who confirmed the owner is currently carrying out repairs to leaks in the roof to prevent further damage," said Councillor Mahmood. "As the building is Grade II-listed, any further works will require the proper consent."
Historical Significance and Future Plans
The Lad in the Lane pub holds a special place in Birmingham's history, alongside The Old Crown in Digbeth, as one of the city's oldest surviving buildings. Historian Carl Chinn emphasized its importance, stating, "It's a special building - one of the oldest in the city. It's had lots of changes over the years but there's still elements and signs of late medieval times inside."
Helen Morgan, who served as landlady from 2011 to 2013, recalled the pub's vibrant past: "It was a proper community pub. You used to have a burger van outside, function rooms and a massive beer garden. It used to be really busy, especially on the weekends with the football going on." She described its current state as a "terrible shame."
Challenges and Next Steps
The owner is aware that further restoration will require formal planning permission due to the building's listed status. According to Councillor Mahmood, the owner is preparing a planning application while consulting with the council's heritage officer. The current repairs are expected to involve like-for-like replacements to maintain historical integrity.
Councillor Mahmood has pledged to continue monitoring the situation and keep residents updated on progress. This development marks a hopeful turn for a landmark that has been a key part of Erdington's community for centuries, with efforts now focused on preserving its legacy for future generations.
