Historic pub to be demolished

A historic pub at Warrnambool on the south-western coast of Victoria, will be demolished because of concerns it might collapse.

The Criterion Hotel was badly damaged in a fire three years ago and the local council says a report has deemed the building to be structurally unsafe.

The Mayor Michael Neoh says it was hoped the facade of the 19th century building could be kept, but it too will have to be demolished.

"It's a safety issue, we have a report that says it's structurally not sound and in the event of a storm there is possibility of collapse," he said.

"In the interest of public safety and in terms of risk mitigation for council and the owners, it will be demolished."

The 19th century building will be demolished after it was badly damaged by fire three years ago.

Source: ABC News, 24 April 2013