Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell has expressed disappointment at the response he has received from Punch Taverns who are currently responsible for the Black Bull hotel and pub in Moffat. The historic drinking spot, said to be a favourite of poet Robert Burns who left an inscription on a window pane which occupies a prominent spot on the way into the town is currently closed whilst a new operator is sought. Mr Mundell had written to the company to pass on the concerns of a number of local residents and the Community Council regarding the way in which the site had been boarded up with metal panelling. The local MP agrees that this is unsightly and is off putting to visitors on their way into the town who already have to pass the dormant Mercury Motor Inn which has been closed for around a decade.
Mr Mundell had encouraged Punch Taverns to work with the local community and make contact with the Community Council and other surrounding traders to see if there was anything which could be done to improve the appearance of the site. However, the company simply pointed to their insurance policy and have made no such attempts to engage with anyone form the town as far as the local MP is aware. Mr Mundell believes that it should have been possible to explore other options to reduce the unsightly impact of the metal panelling, like having it painted and has pledged to local again at the issue should a new operator not be found by early in the New Year.
Commenting Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell said: “The lack of interest and though Punch Taverns have shown in both the way they have boarded up the Black Bull and their response to community concerns do not inspire confidence. Common sense would suggest that by keeping up appearances at the site and taking a more long-term view with regards local community engagement would best ensure the future of the business and help attract a new landlord in. The current use of metal panelling whilst securing the building does look really unsightly and creates yet another eyesore on your way into Moffat. In my view it is only reasonable to expect the company responsible to listen to local concerns and work with residents and other traders to see if anything can be done to reduce the visual impact the boarded up site has on the town. “
Mr Mundell added: “It is particularly disappointing in the run up to Christmas when other businesses in the town are working so hard to attract visitors and encourage people to spend money, that we have yet another vacant hotel sitting empty on the way into the town. I remain hopeful that a new operator will come forward in the next few months but if not I will be taking this up again with Punch Taverns in the New Year to help ensure a comprise can be found ahead of the busy summer tourist season.”