A pub has been knocked to the ground as the demolition of a former cinema complex continues.

Derelict Quayside pub turned to rubble last week as part of the ongoing works at the old Leisure World site.

The pub was not due to be demolished, according to an application submitted to the council by Associated British Ports (ABP) in April of this year. 

It said: "The existing car park, surroundings, pub and casino will not make up part of the demolition works."

Quayside pub in Southampton has been demolished as part of the ongoing Leisure World works (Image: Mark Stewart)

The old watering hole in West Quay Road closed its doors in 2011 before a brief reopening in 2016.

However, it shortly closed for good, lying vacant for several years.

The large purpose-built chain pub was built opposite what is now IKEA.

READ MORE: Latest pictures show Leisure World building almost completely demolished

Many people used it before a night out in the clubs at Leisure World or the Odeon Cinema - all of which closed during the pandemic.

The nearby Grosvenor Casino continues to operate.

The complex and pub are being cleared by ABP to make room for cruise car parking.

ABP has applied to Southampton City Council to use the site for vehicle storage and parking for up to five years following the demolition work.

The port owners stepped in to clear the site after work to start a new development stalled.

The ambitious plans included 650 homes, two 150-room hotels, a cinema, and a casino.

Work was due to start in early 2023 but did not materialise.

Developer Sovereign Centros secured outline planning permission for the £250m scheme in 2021, but the freehold of the land is owned by Southampton City Council.