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Mixed emotions as landmark Wirral pub building could start a new life

'It's not ideal, but it's better than nothing'

[The former Leaf site in West Kirby]

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The former Leaf site in West Kirby(Image: LDRS)

People in one Merseyside town have mixed emotions as a historic pub building could soon become home to a supermarket. The Black Horse in West Kirby could be turned into a Tesco Express if plans are approved.

The site, on Black Horse Hill, has had numerous incarnations over the years but was home to a pub as early as the 1820s. After the most recent occupiers, Leaf, moved out in early 2025, the historic building has become increasingly run-down.

Separate planning and licensing applications are currently under review by Wirral Council. A planning application was submitted in late 2025, seeking permission to change the use of the building from a pub and restaurant to a shop.

The application also includes five new homes being built on land to the north and north west of the building, part of which is currently the site's car park.

West Kirby local Steve Harrison said the building being back in use would be inherently positive. He said: "It will definitely be better than it is now."

[Steve Harrison, West Kirby resident]

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Steve Harrison, West Kirby resident(Image: LDRS)

On the site becoming a supermarket, and not another pub or restaurant he added: "It's not ideal, but it's better than nothing. It would be lovely to have a nice restaurant or pub but nothing ever seems to work."

Another local, Aaron Leach was happy with the plans. He said: "It was great when it was a pub but West Kirby isn't short of a pub. It's a positive that it will be used."

Aaron said the competition in the town could be a reason why another pub would not be successful or needed. He said the nearby Ring O'Bells is "probably the best pub on the Wirral, which can't help."

Overall Aaron said he is happy with the site becoming a shop, but did say he wishes it was an M&S. His dad, Dave Leach, said he'd much prefer it became another pub.

West Kirby and Thurstaston ward councillor Jenny Johnson said the vast majority of the views she has heard about the scheme are positive and celebrated the fact the building could come back into use.

Cllr Johnson added that while the 'dream' would be for another pub or restaurant, "it is so difficult to run a business in this economy," and she would therefore welcome Tesco.

[Cllr Jenny Johnson, at the former Leaf site]

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Cllr Jenny Johnson, at the former Leaf site(Image: LDRS)

"Leaf is a well-established brand in Liverpool and they couldn't make it work," she added.

On the state of the building, Cllr Johnson said: "Something has got to be done. It is in a state of disrepair."

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