'Loss of old town tavern would help pub trade of today'

The "bevy" of drinking establishments in Congleton's town centre makes it "inevitable" that pubs will fail and so it could be a good thing to lose a 19th century tavern, claims owner Andrew Pear.
The Foresters Arms on Chapel Street has been for sale for over two years and as it has not attracted any buyers, Mr Pear owner wants the grade two listed building to be turned back into cottages - as was the case in Victorian times.
A report to Cheshire East Council stated that the front of the property would remain "broadly unchanged" except for the removal of the pub signs and refurbishment of the brickwork and windows."
Mr Pear said that if the plans were approved, it would mean one less pub competing for business in a crowded town pub trade.

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