A property developer who reportedly destroyed historic tiles at a beloved Victorian pub in Brighton has appeared in court.
Charlie Southall, 46, is facing serious charges related to the destruction of part of the Montreal Arms, a 160-year-old pub, which has long been cherished by the local community.
The Alleged Crime
Southall, a millionaire developer, is accused of hiring a team of builders to remove and damage the iconic green glaze tiles that decorated the Montreal Arms.
This act of vandalism took place in April 2022 and sparked a wave of outrage among locals who hold the pub close to their hearts.
These tiles are not just any decoration; they are part of the pub’s historic charm, and their destruction has led to calls for restoration.
Legal Action and Enforcement Notice
Following the incident, Brighton & Hove City Council stepped in, issuing an enforcement notice demanding that the tiles be restored to their original condition.
The notice was clear: the local council wanted the 1927-era tiles, which were installed after the merger of two breweries, to be repaired and replaced. Southall, however, appealed the notice.
His appeal was dismissed, and a final deadline was set for July 17, 2024, for the restoration work to begin.
Despite the clear order from the council, no progress has been made, and the damage remains unaddressed.
This failure to comply with the council’s order led to Southall being charged with breaching the enforcement notice.
A Community in Shock
The Montreal Arms holds significant value to the people of Brighton, and the damage to the pub has caused deep concern among its regular patrons and the wider community.
Built during the Victorian boom in the 1860s, the pub has served as a central gathering place for many years.
The loss of its historic tiles represents more than just the destruction of a building’s exterior—it symbolizes the erosion of local history and character.
The community is particularly upset because these green tiles, dating back to 1927, are a distinctive feature of the pub.
They were installed after the merger of Portsmouth United Brewery and Brighton’s Rock Brewery, adding to the pub’s rich heritage.
For many, the tiles are an irreplaceable part of the building’s identity.
Court Proceedings and Next Steps
The case has now made its way to Lewes Crown Court, where it was heard on Friday.
During the hearing, the court was told that the Montreal Arms was an integral part of the local community and that the damage to the property had raised significant concerns.
While legal discussions took place, they remain confidential at this stage.
The case was adjourned, and a further hearing is scheduled for next month.
For now, Southall’s legal battle over the restoration of the historic tiles is far from over.
What’s Next?
As the case continues to unfold, many in the local community are hoping for a resolution that will see the Montreal Arms restored to its former glory.
The decision in court will have important implications for not just the future of the pub, but also for the preservation of local history and heritage in Brighton.
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