A historic pub believed to have opened its doors in 1720 is fighting to survive as local residents rally to protect it from potential redevelopment. The Black Horse in High Barnet, London, located at the corner of Wood Street and Union Street, closed in September after its last leaseholder left. Star Pubs, the owner, is now seeking a new operator to reopen the pub soon, but concerns have grown among the community about its future.
Thousands of residents have signed a petition urging Barnet Council to grant the pub “asset of community value” (ACV) status, which would give locals the right to bid for the property if it goes up for sale. High Barnet councillor Emma Whysall has also voiced her support, highlighting how ACV protections have helped preserve other historic sites in the borough.
The petition on Change.org currently has 2,529 signatures. It reads: “The Black Horse in Chipping Barnet is one of our most cherished pubs.
“Founded in 1720, it has served countless generations of locals, and nearly everyone in Barnet has a fond memory of time spent there. The recent closure is a reminder that times are tougher than ever for pubs, and we can’t risk losing this one for good.
“We’re calling on Barnet Council to list The Black Horse as an Asset of Community Value (ACV) under the Localism Act 2011. An ACV listing acknowledges that a building or piece of land holds significant social importance to the local community. For example, as a place for social gatherings, recreation, or cultural events.”
The Petition starter and local resident, Olly Gough, also pointed out that the Prince of Wales pub in East Barnet gained ACV status after fears of redevelopment.
While the community didn’t purchase it directly, the strong local backing encouraged new owners, Heartwood Inns, to take over, and the pub is now thriving once again, he said.
The pub’s history stretches back over three centuries. It was a popular stop during sheep fairs on Barnet Common and has seen multiple owners, including Clutterbuck and Co. and later Cannon Brewery.
Among its most unique features, the pub once housed the local fire engine in the 1850s and had a 20-foot-deep, brick-lined well, rediscovered in the 1950s. There are even local legends of a ghostly figure of an old woman walking through the building.
A council spokesperson said: “The council has not received an application for an asset of community value at this location. Once an application has been submitted, the formal process can begin.”
