Time please! Bulldozers begin changing award-winning Hednesford pub into Starbucks
A former award-winning pub in Hednesford is fast becoming a memory as it is being replaced by a drive-through Starbucks.
The Bridge Inn was a favourite with real ale drinkers for generations before owners called time on alcohol for lattes and swapping barmen for baristas.
There was sadness and anger about the pub's demolition after winning Cannock Chase CAMRA Pub of the Year in April 2022.
Amanda Craggs said: "I don't like the idea of another coffee place taking a pub that has a brilliant reputation and awards. What people have got to realise is that the hospitality industry has been suffering for years, especially the last few years. It's not easy running a pub."
Other residents raised concerns about a drive-through creating more traffic on the busy High Town island.
Cannock Chase Council Councillor Alan Pearson could not find a reason for the council to refuse the planning application despite the objections of residents.
He said: “I never like to see a pub closed but unfortunately things have changed since lockdown. It has totally changed how we think about society and people are drinking at home now.
“I cannot see any reason why we could say no to it.”
The former pub is not being totally demolished with the structure being used for the new coffee outlet, which Starbucks promised would include a meeting space for the local community.
Councillor Adrienne Fitzgerald is looking forward to Starbucks opening, which should be before the end of the year.
She said: “There are a lot of new houses being built in the area and we need a place for people to go and have a coffee and a chat. I would personally have never brought my children into a pub but a coffee shop is more available."