A FORMAL bid to save the Hare and Hounds, in Lammack, as a pub by designating it as an ‘asset of community value’ is being backed by Tory group leader Mike Lee.

The move, under new government legislation, would give campaigners six months to raise the cash to try and keep it as licensed premises.

Owners’ Enterprise Inns have notified the council that if it does register the property under the 2011 Localism Act, they could take legal action for compensation.

The bid by residents, who collected a 300-signature petition to save the pub, follows the Rovers Trust making a similar application to Blackburn with Darwen Council to protect Ewood Park.

A third application for ‘asset of community value’ (ACV) status has been made over the Red Lion pub, in Roman Road.

If successful, it means that campaigners must be notified if the premises are offered for sale, giving them six months to put together their own bids.

Senior Labour councillors have warned even if the bid succeeds, it is unlikely to save the Hare and Hounds, and could land the council with a £20,000 bill.

Beardwood with Lammack councillor Mr Lee said: “I am right behind this bid. This is the last surviving pub in the area. There have been several bids to keep it open as a pub, turn it into a private house, and other purposes.

“Takings have risen. It is an asset to the community.”

Shear Brow councillor Suleman Khonat said: “There was some talk six months ago about buying it for an Islamic prayer room. When people saw the price, the idea went quiet.”

Borough finance boss Andy Kay said: “Nominating places as ‘assets of community value’ is a barmpot idea from the government. It can’t stop the sale, just delay it and possibly land the council with a bill for £20,000.”

Roe Lee councillor Phil Riley, involved in a failed campaign to save the Stanley Arms, in Pemberton Street, said: “I don’t think Mike Lee understands the legislation.”

A spokeswoman for Enterprise Inns said: “We have put the pub up for sale without restriction. We have been in dialogue with the council about the application for ACV status.”