Fire crews were called to a major fire at the former Black Cock Inn on Green Lane, Walsall Wood, in the early hours of Wednesday, July 29, which has left the historic building gutted.
The blaze, reported around 2am, drew multiple fire crews who worked for several hours to bring it under control. West Midlands Fire Service confirmed that no injuries were reported and the incident was managed safely.
Firefighting Operation
Crews used multiple main jets and a hydraulic platform to tackle the fire from a defensive position. Water supplies were drawn from both the hydrant network and open water sources. The fire service said: 'Just before 2:00am, crews were mobilised to a significant fire at the derelict Black Cock Public House on Green Lane, Walsall Wood. Firefighters worked throughout the early hours to bring the incident under control.'
Once the fire was under control, resources were gradually scaled back, though crews remained to monitor the building and deal with remaining hotspots. The service thanked control room staff, supporting crews, welfare teams and partner agencies for their teamwork.
History and Development Plans
The Black Cock Inn has stood vacant and derelict since its closure around the time of the pandemic. It had become a target for vandalism and antisocial behaviour, with the building deteriorating significantly. The present structure was built in the early 1930s as a replacement for the original pub, which had suffered structural damage believed to be caused by subsidence from mining activities at Walsall Wood Colliery.
Before the fire, CCCD Developments Limited had submitted plans to demolish the site and build 13 new homes. The fire is likely to accelerate those redevelopment plans, though the full extent of the damage is yet to be assessed.
Community Impact
Once a landmark in the Black Country, the pub's closure and subsequent neglect has been a source of concern for local residents. The fire has drawn attention to the ongoing issue of derelict buildings in the area and their susceptibility to such incidents.
