THE battle to save a historic pub has received a boost after it was granted special status.

The Rose Hill Tavern in Rose Hill Terrace, Brighton, has been recognised as an asset of community value by Brighton and Hove City Council.

The status means that if the owner wishes to sell or grant a long lease of the property within five years of listing, the owner must notify the council first and wait a minimum of six weeks while the intended sale is publicised to any community groups who may want to bid for the property.

Should an expression of interest be made during that deadline, the owner must wait a full six months to allow any bidding groups to put forward a bid.

Even if a community bid is forthcoming, the owner is still free to choose who they sell to.

The pub closed after 144 years on Sunday and owner Enterprise Inns has already indicated its intention to sell the site to a property developer for £350,000.

For the latest on the campaign visit www.facebook.com/ savetherosehilltavern.