A MORAY COUNCILLOR is expressing his extreme disappointment at a decision by the owners of the Tennant Arms in Lhanbryde to press ahead and demolish the landmark building.
Just a week after receiving planning permission for demolition and the creation of a new shop and car park on the site, the developers appeared to take note of public concern.
Claiming that they had noted the “absolute passion” shown by the local community for the building, Tahir Pervaiz indicated that he would put a hold on the demolition subject to new plans being formulated.
However, it has now emerged that the original plan is to go ahead, with local councillor Sean Morton having been informed by Plans Plus architect Colin Keir that Co-Operative Stores had placed ‘extreme pressure’ on Mr Pervaiz to press ahead.
Councillor Morton said: “The owner of the Tennant Arms and The Co-op plan to go back on their word.
“After speaking with their architect this morning [Tuesday] it is clear that they plan to demolish the building. It’s very bad news and shows that this is an owner with no concern for local people. It’s time for us to roll up our sleeves and get to work for this old landmark once again.
“If you are as angry and determined as I am please sign to up to the Save The Tennant Arms campaign at www.fb.com/savethetennantarms – and if you have not already signed it, people can sign the petition against the development at https://www.change.org/p/the-co-op-save-the-tennant-arms.
“They can ignore a promise but we will not let them ignore Lhanbryde.”