A public inquiry into the shock demolition of a historic pub in Kilburn will begin today.

Brent & Kilburn Times: The owners have been ordered to build it back 'brick-by-brick'The owners have been ordered to build it back 'brick-by-brick' (Image: Archant)

The hearing, led by a government planning inspector, will decide if the Carlton Tavern in Carlton Vale, should be rebuilt ‘brick by brick’ after it was reduced to rubble last April.

The pub, which dates back to 1920 and survived the Blitz, was due to be given a Grade II listing by Historic England when its owners CLTX knocked it down after it was refused permission by Westminster Council to develop the site.

CLTX, which is based in Israel and owned by Ori Calif, had sought to replace the pub with a bar and a block of flats.

In May last year, Westminster Council ordered CLTX to rebuild the pub ‘brick by brick’ within 18 months or face the courts.

Brent & Kilburn Times: The pub before it was demolished (Pic credit: Flickr/Ewan Munro)The pub before it was demolished (Pic credit: Flickr/Ewan Munro) (Image: Archant)

CLTX launched an appeal against the order which will be heard at the public inquiry.

It is expected to last eight weeks.