Police investigating Crooked House fire as arson 

Staffordshire Police are now treating the fire that burnt down the Crooked House pub in Himley in the West Midlands as arson.  

The statement issued on 9 August acknowledges the upset that the incident has caused and promises a “robust investigation” into the causes of the fire – which preceded the fire-damaged structure being entirely demolished, without the benefit of planning permission. 

The police noted that speculation about the fire was “unhelpful”, following widespread discussion about the damage on social media. 

“We understand the significance of this much-loved building and the upset and anger felt by many so want to reassure you we’re doing all we can to understand more about what happened, and who was responsible,” said Detective Chief Superintendent Tom Chisholm, head of specialist crime. 

“There is lots of misinformation circulating within communities and online and this is unhelpful. We’re trying to provide accurate and timely updates, but as I am sure you can appreciate, there is a lot of work and liaison with a number of partners which needs to be completed and this takes time.” 

South Staffordshire Council has announced that it is investigating “potential breaches” of the Town and Country Planning Act following the demolition of the Crooked House pub in Himley.  

The police urge anyone with information to get in touch using 101 quoting incident 761 of 5 August or message via live chat on their website. 

10 August 2023 
Ben Gosling, The Planner 

Our planning news is published in association with The Planner, the official magazine of the Royal Town Planning Institute.