Published: Tuesday, 13th May, 2008 10:30
IF CUTTY SHIP CAN BE SAVED, SO CAN THE PUB
By Martin Donegan
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DELIGHTED staff and punters at a landmark Dumbarton pub have hailed the council after it torpedoed a bid to turn it into a bookies.
The owners of the Cutty Sark, Punch Taverns, had wanted to lease the pub to betting chain Ladbrokes.
But West Dunbartonshire licensing chiefs handed the under-threat pub a lifeline by refusing permission for a change of use.
However, the bar, named after the world-famous Burgh-built clipper, could still go under – despite efforts by loyal customers to save it.
Hundreds of concerned regulars have signed a petition to rescue their local but many fear the smoking ban and rising rent costs have already sealed its fate.
One defiant customer, who asked not to be named, insisted the pub would fight on and urged those behind the petition to take inspiration from the original Cutty Sark — which was ravaged by fire a year ago this month.
He said: “They thought the ship was a goner when it went up in smoke but experts are now saying it can be saved.
“Everyone in the pub is determined to keep it alive and there is no reason we can’t do a salvage job of our own.
“The Cutty Sark has a reputation as one of the best pubs in the town so I’m delighted the council has knocked Ladbrokes back.”
Others who opposed Ladbrokes’ application included councillor Ronnie McColl and members of two community councils.
Bosses at Punch Taverns, vowed to appeal the decision.
A spokeswoman said: “We’re disappointed with the outcome and hope to appeal once we have reviewed our position.”
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