Derelict Oldbury pub damaged in arson attack

The fire started on the first floor of the former Merrivale pub, off Vicarage Road and Dog Kennel Lane, shortly after 2am on Tuesday morning.

A West Midlands Police spokesman said the force are now investigating the arson at the former pub.

A force spokesman said: "Police are investigating arson at The Merrivale Pub in Vicarage Road, Oldbury, just after 2am on Tuesday.

"Enquiries continue and anyone with information is asked to contact police."

Ten firefighters tackled the blaze at its height in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

A spokesman for West Midlands Fire Service said: "The fire involved the first floor of the three-storey derelict former public house. Twenty per cent of the building has been affected but the fire was contained to the first floor.

"Smoke and heat damage has been caused throughout the property.

"We returned to the scene to check for any hotspots."

Karl Renar posted on Twitter: "Had a bit of a shock this morning when I saw what had happened to my former local pub The Merrivale.

"Fire in the early hours of this morning [Tuesday]. Such a shame as it's a really nice building."

Plans were lodged with Sandwell Council last year to turn the former pub into a Hindu temple. The plans said it would give the pub a "new lease of life" after being sat empty for nearly five years. It was also described as an "eyesore" in the proposals.

But the applicants withdrew the proposals earlier this year.

Anyone with information about the arson attack at the pub, can call West Midlands Police on 101, quoting crime reference number 20SW/109079P/19.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.