A two-year row over liability for the payment of scaffolding surrounding a derelict pub is being escalated with the threat of legal action.

On March 23, 2022, the Haven Bridge pub in Great Yarmouth went up in flames, with reports of smoke and fire being seen from as far as the Acle Straight.

Following the fire, teams from KB Scaffolding secured the property. But since then, the scaffolding firm's boss has been in a dispute with Great Yarmouth Borough Council (GYBC), the leaseholder and the building owner. 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Haven Bridge pub on fire in March 2022. Picture - Angel Lala EsherwoodHaven Bridge pub on fire in March 2022. Picture - Angel Lala Esherwood (Image: Angel Lala Esherwood)Michael Black, owner of KB Scaffolding, said he is weeks away from taking legal action against the three parties.

"I cannot believe that this has been going on for two years," Mr Black said.

"It was only supposed to be up for six months."

Great Yarmouth Mercury: A call for action has been made about the future of the Haven Bridge pub. Picture - Oliv3r Drone PhotographyA call for action has been made about the future of the Haven Bridge pub. Picture - Oliv3r Drone Photography (Image: Oliv3r Drone Photography)A GYBC spokesman said the council continues to work with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and various parties connected with the building and scaffolding to make sure the situation is dealt with appropriately.

The council spokesman added: "The council’s building control team has undertaken an inspection of the site and the HSE has been notified in relation to the integrity of the scaffolding." The council will carry out further investigations and is awaiting the results of a structural report.

KB Scaffolding staff also continue to monitor the building's structure every seven days. 

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Scaffolders on top of the Haven Bridge pub in March 2022. Picture - KB ScaffoldingScaffolders on top of the Haven Bridge pub in March 2022. Picture - KB Scaffolding (Image: KB Scaffolding)The soaring bill currently stands at £426,000.

Mr Black added: "It would have been much better - and cheaper for everyone - if we could have had a face-to-face meeting and get it sorted. 

"But clearly that hasn't been the case this time, which is a real shame."

"Let's see what develops in the courtroom."

In February, several councillors made a call for action and the ongoing situation is scheduled to be discussed at an upcoming scrutiny committee meeting at the Town Hall.