What next for the Swan?
Rosie MacGregor, chair of the Preservation Trust’s planning committee, considers the uncertain future of one of Bradford’s most prominent buildings
There is no doubt that this building has had a chequered history. All you have to do is look at the date of AD 1500 on the pediment and compare this to what is clearly an 18th century frontage with no evidence of its 16th century origins externally, although there remains some evidence within of earlier masonry and timber framing. It would once have been the principal hostelry in the town, but today many parts of the building are in a semi-derelict state and subject to the ravages of regular flooding.
The Swan is a Grade II* listed building which means, within the context of national historic listings, that it is a particularly important building of more than special interest. Only 5.8 per cent of listed buildings in England and Wales are Grade II*.
It is an outstanding building in a prominent location within the heart of the town’s conservation area. Interesting historic features externally are its fenestration which includes a fine Venetian-style window on the frontage with another on the rear, wrought iron balconettes, entrance door with fanlight, Tuscan-style pilasters, exceptional architectural detailing and a fine staircase within.
Allegedly – but without any evidence – Judge Jeffreys stayed there following the Monmouth Rebellion. It was once home to local magistrates’ courts and an important hostelry and meeting place given its prominence in the centre of the town. How times change!
There has been much conjecture about its future ever since the doors were locked shut and the For Sale notices appeared. It should be an indispensable community asset serving local trade and tourism. Instead, it has been steadily deteriorating – so much so that despite an asking price in the region of £500,000 it is more likely to have a negative value. Imagine the cost of essential repairs and restoration to the fabric of the building, including its Cotswold stone tiled roof, redecorating, rewiring, sorting out the drains and plumbing. All that without even considering the flood risk.
A daunting prospect likely to cost several million pounds in restoration costs and professional fees. Some people have suggested that the Preservation Trust might buy it – but given the costs involved, including fundraising and loan repayments – it would be an impossible task.
However, it would be a tragedy if the building were converted to other uses: the town needs a central hotel with parking, and the interior layout would be unlikely to lend itself to conversion to flats or other uses.
During my time employed with the local planning authority I met with representatives of both Historic England and the former owners, to look at ways of improving the layout. We were shown round the whole building and were shocked by the small size of the kitchen area, the quirky layout and differing floor levels. Hardly ideal for a busy hotel, yet its Grade II* status would prevent major changes to the layout and structure. Nevertheless, with imagination and capital it could be stylish and unique.
The big commercial pub chains would expect to open the whole of the ground floor area to maximise the number of tables and chairs. They would be aware that as a Grade II* listed building, Historic England and not just Wiltshire Council would be involved and would be unlikely to support major changes to the interior layout that would compromise the building’s historic interest. An astute entrepreneur might not regard its purchase as a great investment or a good fit with their business ethos.
It is regularly showing on Savills’ website as ‘under offer’ but despite rumour and suggestions that the owners of a major pub chain and a smaller local brewery have shown an interest, this is all speculation and there is nothing more to report at the present time. Much like the swans whose nests are regularly swept away by the Avon’s flood waters, pity the poor Swan.
