Breightmet's Former Pub Faces Vandalism and Arson Amid Community Concerns
Breightmet's ‘running sore’ arson hit pub where kids use power tools to break in

Image: Manchester Evening News
The former Withins pub in Breightmet, Bolton, has become a site of vandalism and arson, prompting local councillor Sean Fielding to propose using part of a £20 million funding initiative to restore the site. Community involvement is crucial as local youths have been breaking in using power tools.
- 01The Withins pub has been a target for vandalism and arson, leading to safety concerns.
- 02Councillor Sean Fielding described the site as a 'running sore' and has reported issues since his election in 2023.
- 03The council owns the freehold of the site, but a third party is responsible for its security.
- 04Funding from the £20 million 'Pride in Place' initiative could be used for restoration efforts.
- 05Community members are encouraged to report incidents and secure tools to prevent further break-ins.
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The former Withins pub in Breightmet, Bolton, has been plagued by vandalism and arson, with local councillor Sean Fielding describing it as a 'running sore' for the community. Fielding highlighted that since his election in 2023, he has consistently reported security issues at the site, which has seen break-ins and fires. The responsibility for securing the building lies with a third party, despite the council owning the freehold. To address these ongoing problems, Fielding proposed utilizing part of the £20 million 'Pride in Place' funding aimed at revitalizing the district over the next decade. This funding not only provides financial support but also grants powers like community right to buy and compulsory purchase, which could help regain control of the site. Fielding stressed the importance of community involvement, urging residents to report any incidents of trespass and to ensure that tools are secured to prevent local youths from breaking in. He expressed optimism about transforming the site into a positive community space.
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The ongoing vandalism and arson at the Withins pub pose safety risks to the community and hinder local development.
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