Proposal to Convert Derelict Listed Building into Hotel Rejected

A proposal to transform a neglected listed structure into a high-end hotel close to RAF Cosford has been denied. The project, situated at Neach Hill in Neachley, envisioned converting a Grade II listed 19th Century residence into a 12-bedroom hotel, alongside the construction of a 46-bedroom hotel block and a pool facility to create a spa. Shropshire Council’s Southern Planning Committee unanimously rejected the plan, located near Shifnal, which also incorporated new residential properties. Planning officials had advised against approval, citing that it constituted an unsuitable development within the green belt and would result in a rise in traffic. They further stated that it could negatively affect the quality of life for residents in the vicinity due to noise and disruption. The proposal, put forward by Nazmo Limited, also involved converting a Coach House to offer additional guest lodging, restoring and re-establishing a walled garden with a new orangery and supporting structures, and building 58 homes to support the construction efforts. The villa deteriorated in the early 2000s and subsequently became a site for unauthorized gatherings, leading to what its owners characterized as “extensive” damage to the structure. A planning consultant, representing the applicant, stated that significant pre-application discussions occurred with the council, including site visits, which were described as favorable. Councillor Nigel Lumby commented, “I’m quite up for it to be a hotel, but 58 houses is too much, and the footprint for the hotel is far big and it will disrupt the look of what is a graded building.” He added, “It detracts from the house, so for that reason and the fact it is in green belt, I cannot support this.” Councillor Andy Boddington also remarked, “This development is too much for the location and too much for the surrounding roads.” This report was compiled by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, an entity that covers local authorities and other public service bodies. For more updates, follow BBC Shropshire on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external links is available.