Wrexham Council is contemplating legal action over the unauthorised demolition of the town’s former mines rescue station.
Key parts of the Grade II-listed building were destroyed last week two days after it was spot listed by Welsh historic monuments body Cadw. The heritage body acted after contractors moved on to the site. The local planning authority has pointed out the maximum fine in such cases was £20,000 and/or six months imprisonment.
Anna Irwin, conservation officer with Wrexham council and IHBC Member, said the demolition had “significantly damaged the special interest of this building”, which was used for decades to train miners how to rescue their colleagues in disasters. She added: “Unfortunately the training gallery located to the rear of the building has sustained the greatest degree of damage. Significant sections of its wall and roof have been destroyed. The demolition work was undertaken without either a safety certificate from the council or listed building consent. Council officials supervised works to make the structure safe on Friday afternoon which included the removal of sections of the roof and loose brickwork and the provision of temporary support.”
The owner of the site, businessman Neville Dickens, who was unable to comment due to legal reasons, was granted planning permission three years ago to knock down the building and construct flats. Local people have been campaigning to save the 1913 building because of its historical significance.
A council spokesperson said: “Council officers have interviewed the contractors under caution and will be speaking to the owner of the property shortly to ascertain why this work took place. The council will then have to consider whether it is appropriate to pursue a prosecution. It is a criminal offence to demolish or alter a listed building. If convicted of this offence, a person is liable to a fine or imprisonment.”
