Work starts on flats in former Wolverhampton pub
A landmark pub on a busy route into a city is being transformed into flats.
Work has already started on transforming the former British Oak pub in Wolverhampton into two three-bedroom luxury flats.
The building, in Willenhall Road, has been bought by Midlands based Vanbrugh Construction.
Director Richard Sanders, who is from Wolverhampton, said he was thrilled to be able to give something back to his home city.
"It's an absolute pleasure to be not only fulfilling the need for affordable homes but to do so in my home town and be giving back to the people of Wolverhampton," he said.
Mr Sanders has pledged to retain some of the original features of the pub, which dates back to 1900.
This will include the pub's facade and an original fireplace which carries the Banks's Brewery crest.
Mr Sanders said: "The British Oak is a magnificent building and forms an imposing entrance into Wolverhampton."
"Our teams are passionate about transforming the historic building.
"We will be retaining the truly magnificent facade alongside the original fireplace which carries the Banks Brewery crest."
Once work on the building is completed, the team will be constructing two-bedroom family homes on the pub's former car park site.
The British Oak is one of a string of pubs to close down in recent months in the city.
Last summer, the nearby Neachells Pub, which stands on the corner of Neachells Lane and Willenhall Road, closed its doors.
Last month it was targeted by arsonists but it was later revealed it is being sold off and will be redeveloped under fresh plans.
