Home / Business and Economy / Hotel Faces Ruin Over Mysterious Cellar Flood
Hotel Faces Ruin Over Mysterious Cellar Flood
4 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Hotel cellar flooded after nearby roadworks, impacting food service.
- Owner fears business survival if leak isn't fixed before Christmas.
- Council investigating leak; owner claims direct link to road repairs.
The Black Swan hotel in Pickering is in jeopardy as a significant cellar flood, discovered after October roadworks, threatens its survival. Owner Phil Hall reported a spring-like flow in the cellar the day after the North Yorkshire Council's highways team completed nearby repairs. This leak poses hygiene risks and has halted food services, impacting vital Christmas trade.
Mr. Hall claims a direct correlation between the roadworks and the persistent leak, noting the building's age and the unprecedented water volume. Despite contacting authorities and Yorkshire Water, a swift response was lacking, with the council only commencing exploratory work seven weeks later after intervention from Mr. Hall's MP.
North Yorkshire Council has acknowledged the business impact and is actively investigating the leak's source, including excavating the footpath. Mr. Hall expresses grave concern over the potential loss of revenue during a critical period, stating the business's future hinges on resuming food operations.
