One of the last remaining pub buildings on Cross Lane in Salford could become eight flats if a planning officers pass proposals this week.
The first and second floors would be converted into small self-contained flats under the proposals.
The Paddock was built in the 1930s and originally tied to the Swales brewery. It went on sale for £185,000 last year.
It was famous for its Saturday evening cabaret concerts where artists such as Lita Rosa played, but declining regulars saw profits take a nosedive and the pub has now been vacant and derelict for at least 10 years.
The pub facade is shabby and shoddily maintained, leading to fears the landlord will do nothing to improve its character.
At one time Cross Lane was the true centre of Salford and boasted an incredible 18 hostelries.
This exclusive film sourced and edited by SalfordOnline.com shows the bustling, vibrant street in the 1960s with its two music halls, the Carlton cinema a railway station, an army barracks, an open market, churches, plus dozens and dozens of shops.
Watch: Rare colour footage of Cross Lane in 1960s
Built in the 1930s, the pub was originally called The Fusilier in reference to the Cross Lane army barracks down towards Stowell’s spire, from where Salford lads marched into two World Wars.
It changed its name in the 1960s to The Paddock, presumably in homage to the Racecourse down the road which hosted the legendary Buffalo Bill in 1887.
Watch: Buffalo Bill brings West West show to Salford
A 2013 planning application lodged with the council by Dennis Wee Realty Group proposed to demolish the Paddock and replace it with 84 studio flats, but this was later withdrawn.
Local residents put in 84 objections to the current plans, by applicant Mrs Zenab Bibi, over fears the eight one-bed studio flats could be leased to unruly students with a landlord who would not live on the site.
Local councillors Gina Reynolds and John Warmisham also highlighted existing problems with on-street parking, but planners write that there is “an identified need for 1 bedroom units in this area of the City” and so the development is considered appropriate.
The plans will be discussed this Thursday 5 March where officers have recommended to approve the proposals.
