As you probably know, property developers are planning to knock down the Arch Bar and build a massive six-floor block of student flats there instead. Last month, the Council decided to put off the decision on the plan until after they have conducted a site visit.
This late proposal came from councillors following pressure from locals and The Green Party. However, we shouldn't expect too much from the postponement by itself. The plans will come before the Council Planning Meeting at the Town Hall on Thursday 14th January at 2pm. If this matters to you and you can attend, please do so to show local feeling about the loss of yet another community resource for the people of Hulme.
You may not be aware, however, that The Cavendish pub just along the road from Arch Bar, last week closed down. It was sold by the owners and we think it might become a fast food outlet (this is unconfirmed at this stage). This is all the more reason to try to save the Arch.
Danny Hall, ex-manager of both Arch Bar and the Cavendish pub says: “The Arch Bar should not be demolished – it should be turned into a community resource like it used to be.”
In Spring 2008 a Local Labour election leaflet featured a big item on the fate of the Arch after it closed. Along with a nice photo, it said: "Your Local Labour Team is lobbying for the site, which Robinson's are planning to sell, to be used for the building of affordable homes for Hulme people or a facility to be used by the community."
It's a shame that 18 months later it appears that Labour are ignoring these fine ideals. We had hoped the Labour Council wouldn't just say “yes” to the first money-making scheme that came along. Sadly it looks like property developers' interests may once again come ahead of those of the community.
I will continue to keep you informed of what's happening.
With best wishes for a happy and peaceful New Year.
Gayle O’Donovan,
Green Party Candidate for Hulme
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