THE Herald has taken a keen interest in works at The Marlborough Head pub in recent weeks – and in particular the apparent destruction of the boarded-up boozer’s roof.

And it seems we’re not the only ones – with John Seager sending us this image of the former pub with the caption ‘Wanton vandalism by Waverley Borough Council!’ – Waverley being in partnership with Crest Nicholson, in redeveloping the East Street area of Farnham town centre.

The Farnham Society has also expressed concern, and recently posted photos online showing workmen undertaking the roof works, commenting: “So disappointing. Clay roofing tiles from The Marlborough Head thrown to the ground to save time at the instruction of Crest Nicholson.

“What a waste of resource. How unsustainable.”

Having raised the issue with developer Crest, it seems all is not quite as it appears however. A spokesman for the Brightwells developer said: “The works to Marlborough Head have included demolition to the out buildings, soft strip of the internal walls and beginning of survey works to the roof.

“During the survey works, Crest have removed the old concrete roof tiles that will be upgraded to a better quality clay tile.

The timber members supporting the roof will all be inspected, checked, repaired or replaced, where required, to bring the building back up to a modern standard of safety.

“Over the next few weeks, further surveys and structural works will commence.

“During these works the building will be supported through a temporary works system of scaffold supports.

“The internal layout of The Marlborough Head is being reworked to accommodate retail with the main three external facades being retained.

“Where possible materials have been reused and recycled.”