Fears are mounting that a fire-ravaged historic pub in South London could collapse during the coming winter months unless urgent protective measures are implemented. The Grade II listed Burn Bullock in Mitcham, severely damaged in a major blaze in April 2024, is deteriorating rapidly, prompting local conservationists and residents to issue a stark warning.
Critical Condition and Calls for Immediate Action
The condition of the building has worsened dramatically in recent weeks. The Local Democracy Reporting Service observed that parts of the structure were left exposed after scaffolding was removed from sections of the site. The local conservation group, Mitcham Cricket Green Community and Heritage (MCGCH), has now written to Merton Council demanding urgent works.
In the letter, they called for the building to be secured with full scaffolding, structural supports, and weatherproof coverings to withstand the harsher winter weather. Tony Burton, secretary of MCGCH, described the situation as "critical," stating the building will not survive the winter without intervention.
"We now ask Merton Council to step in where the owner has failed and take the urgent action needed to shore up and protect the building," Burton told the LDRS. He emphasised that the owner, Phoenix Group Investments Limited, could still be made to bear the costs.
A Building on the Brink
The pub, with sections believed to date back to the 16th century, was recently added to the National Heritage at Risk Register. The register classified its condition as "very bad" and assigned it the highest priority for urgent works. It warned of an "immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric."
The building was engulfed in flames on the evening of 19 April 2024. An investigation involving the London Fire Brigade and the Met Police has since closed, with the cause of the fire remaining undetermined.
According to Merton Council’s archives, the pub was named after Burnett 'Burn' Bullock, a former Surrey cricketer who later became its licensee. The pub has been closed for business since 2010.
Community Demands Long-Term Solution
The local community and MCGCH believe a compulsory purchase of the site by the council offers the best hope for its future. Burton added that the group stands ready to work with the council to find a long-term solution that restores the Burn Bullock and secures the neighbouring Mitcham Cricket Pavilion for the community.
Merton Council has acknowledged the desire for a compulsory purchase but noted it is a "hugely complex action" complicated by the building's listed status. Councillor Andrew Judge, Cabinet Member for Housing and Sustainable Development, confirmed the building is subject to a dangerous structure notice, with compliance being the owner's responsibility.
Residents have expressed their dismay on social media. One commented that the pub looks "sad," while Oli Carter-Esdale, landlord of a nearby award-winning pub, said the owners should "be forced to forfeit the site" given their reluctance to repair it.
With winter setting in, the race is on to prevent the total loss of this cherished piece of local history.
