A RALLYING call has been issued to Droitwich residents to have their say on the changes made to the planning proposals for the Raven Hotel.
The new application has now been placed on display at the Tourist Information Centre, in St Richard’s House, and will remain on show until next Friday (June 27).
This comes after Mayor Bob Brookes voiced his concerns over the amount of changes made to the proposal. That came after a consultation held by the developer Origin3 last year, where more than 750 Spatans turned up to have their say.
Coun Brookes highlighted concerns over the lack of car and coach parking spaces for the restaurant which will be able to seat 150 people, as well as the planned style and materials to be used in the development.
He also claimed the proposal looked confusing and was hard to understand.
All the comments made will be sent to Wychavon District Council ready for a meeting next Monday (June 30) where the committee will decide whether to give full planning permission.
Coun Brookes said: “Whilst I welcome the redevelopment of this area in general, what is done now will shape Droitwich Spa for the next 100 years.
“I feel there should be a further period of public consultation and discussion with the architects with full plans on display.
“The developer has not yet agreed to this, so the town council is taking the initiative by making a copy of the revised plans available to view at our Tourist Information Centre.” he added.
Connor Flanagan, the Origin3 agent for the application, said he believed a good quality scheme had been proposed which was not only suitable for the area but incorporated the local residents’ and council’s opinions.
He added: “The changes to the scheme were made after discussions with Wychavon District Council officers, councillors and local residents.
“With regards to car parking we have to be guided by Worcestershire County Council’s Highways Department and adhere to what they expect to see as well as deliver a commercially deliverable scheme.
“The key thing with this is, it is a huge investment which will save the historical timber core of the building.”
Visit www.wychavon.gov.uk/cms/planning/search-for-applications.aspx or fill out a feedback form, which are available from St Richards house, to have your say.
