THE future of a derelict landmark Priory pub moved a step closer to being finalised as furious residents and councillors branded the site an "eyesore".

Residents claim the Duncan Edwards pub has become a target for anti-social behaviour, looks like an eyesore and is a safety risk.

They claim since time was called on the Priory Road pub last year it has become a shelter for drug dealers.

In May the site was gutted by an arson attack as ten foot flames flew from the roof of the derelict pub.

Fed up Brian Wilson, of Rosewood Road, who is also chair of the Priory Tenants and Residents Association, wants to know what will happen to the pub.

He said: "It's a nightmare.

"It's disgusting, an eyesore.

"The pub looks absolutely rubbish.

"Somebody is going to get hurt or crippled if they go in there.

"It's about time it was knocked down.

"Will it look like this for the rest of the year? What are they doing with it?"

Frustrated Priory councillor Father Geoff Johnston echoes residents' views and raised the pub's plight at the Central Dudley Area Committee on Tuesday November 7.

He said: "The place is just an absolute tip. It's an eyesore.

"Residents want to try to get rid of this eyesore as soon as possible."

Rumours are rife about what will happen to the pub and owners Punch Taverns confirmed the site will be re-developed in the near future.

A Punch Taverns spokesperson said: "We can confirm that contracts have been exchanged with a developer for the sale of the pub and we are currently awaiting legal completion."

The pub was officially renamed the Duncan Edwards pub in 2001 and the former Manchester United star's mum, Sarah Edwards, was on hand at the grand opening.

The pub is yards from where the sporting legend, who died in the 1958 Munich air disaster, once lived.