THE DEVELOPER tasked with restoring The Raven Hotel in Droitwich have reiterated their commitment to ‘bringing the beautiful building back to its former glory’.
There has been heavy criticism over vandalism to the building while it waits to be refurbished and this week, Inroka which is developing the site and its partners, confirmed security was being stepped up, including CCTV and additional signage warning of the dangers of entering the site.
Rajinder Singh, Inroka’s director, told the Standard: “We are passionate about The Raven and are excited about its future and what it can offer the town.
“We appreciate the frustration from residents who want to see it redeveloped – we feel the same way.
“We have been working very closely with Wychavon over the past two years and they have been supportive to us as we have to them.
“Projects like this take a long time because of the sensitivity of the building.”
On the vandalism he added: “It has not affected the structure but the graffiti is an eye-sore.
“It is also worth pointing out the listed parts of the building have not been damaged or adversely affected – that part is dry and secure.”
We reported about plans put forward for the historic building and the surrounding area which, as well as housing, could also include a gin bar and brine baths.
Rajinder said: “We are also very excited about the ongoing discussions regarding the gin bar and with SOBBS (Save Our Brine Baths) about the building’s future.”
Planning permission has been granted for apartments and commercial space on the ground floor – subject to a Section 106 agreement for local amenities which, Rajinder added, should be signed off in the coming weeks.
“We estimate it will take around six months from now to demolish parts of the building as set out in the planning approval and to make the building stable and watertight.
“The renovation of the listed building and new-build part of the project can then begin.
“It is estimated that the whole project will take around 18 months to complete and occupation to commence.
“We will be providing regular updates to the community.”
