CHICAGO Rock owner Umar Hussain is devastated at losing his flagship building to fire but says a new development will rise from the ruins of the iconic landmark.
The Grade II listed building was gutted by fire two weeks ago.
An inspection of the charred shell was carried out by structural engineers last week which established it was at imminent risk of collapse and couldn’t be saved.
As a consequence the decision was taken by the owner to flatten the 27,000 sq ft venue due to the significant risk it posed to public safety.
We have been at the heart of our community, every week, since 1858. The town and its people have changed dramatically since then but the Chronicle has been a constant.
It’s our belief that news should be available to everyone regardless of their circumstance. But we need a little helping hand to do so.
Production Editor, Ashley Ball, said: "In an ever changing media world, it’s important that news is reported correctly and without any hidden agenda.
Your support allows us to keep holding decision-makers to account and report on everything that happens in the town, good or bad, fairly."