Houses to rise from Phoenix ashes

FLASHBACK to last August: one of the many fires at the Phoenix Tavern in Charleston Street, Hathershaw, caused by arsonists

A NEW housing development is set to rise from the ashes of a former Hathershaw pub.

The derelict Phoenix Tavern — targeted by arsonists several times — will be demolished and the land used for nine family-size homes. Previous owner J W Lees closed the pub in February 2012..

Owner First Choice Investments bought the building last August, since when firefighters have tackled several blazes.

Tariq Mustaq of First Choice Investments said housing was the only viable use for the site.

He said: “This will bring more families to the area and will rid the area of a building which has become an eyesore.”

Oldham planners recently accepted proposals for eight four-bedroom semi-detached homes and a detached house. The homes are expected to be completed in the next 16 months.