Archaeology review begins at Old Roan pub site

Plans to redevelop the Old Roan site move forward as archaeology rules shape the project

Archaeology review begins at Old Roan pub site

The Old Roan pub in Aintree Village sits vacant after closing in 2013. In 2021 2M Developments Ltd bought the site and sought permission in 2023 to demolish the building and replace it with a three to four storey block. A 2024 planning revision narrowed the scheme to three storeys, with conditions tied to archaeology. The pub is a non-designated heritage asset, with historical records dating the inn to 1798 and the current building to 1890. An archaeological watching brief and a written scheme of investigation have been submitted, and the local planning authority must approve the scheme before site clearance proceeds. The site’s derelict state has been a point of local contention, and a 2020 fine was levied against the previous owner for failing to carry out remedial works.

This case shows how heritage rules shape urban development timelines. Archaeology safeguards can protect buried history but may slow progress and test residents who want to see action. The designation as a non-designated heritage asset signals value beyond formal lists, complicating decisions for developers and councils. The community’s trust hinges on transparent timelines and a credible path that delivers both preservation and housing. The process also underscores the complexity of repurposing historic sites in Merseyside, where housing demand meets the cost of restoration.

Highlights

The next steps will reveal whether history and housing can move forward together