Home / Sports / Coal Carrying Race Start Threatened by Petrol Station Plans
Coal Carrying Race Start Threatened by Petrol Station Plans
28 Feb
Summary
- Plans aim to convert the Royal Oak pub, start point since 1963, into a petrol station.
- Race organizers fear a 24-hour petrol station will disrupt the annual World Coal Carrying Championships.
- The event's community value and intangible heritage are cited as reasons for its protection.
The iconic World Coal Carrying Championships faces an uncertain future due to proposed development plans. For decades, the race has commenced from the Royal Oak pub on Owl Lane in Ossett, a tradition dating back to 1963.
New proposals seek to transform the now-vacant pub premises into a 24-hour petrol station, complete with a car wash, parking, and a shop. Developers argue this project will enhance the appearance of the area.
However, Councillor Duncan Smith, president of the race's organizing committee, warns that losing this established starting point jeopardizes the "internationally recognised event." He highlights the practical difficulties a 24-hour petrol station and associated road closures would present.
Despite being on greenbelt land and not a designated heritage asset, the Royal Oak holds significant community value due to its strong association with the championships. The event, which traditionally involves carrying substantial sacks of coal over 1,012 meters, continues to attract participants globally, with this year's adult entries selling out rapidly.
