Wychavon District Council has issued an ultimatum to the owner of the Raven Hotel in Droitwich Spa, demanding immediate action to protect the deteriorating Grade II listed building.

The once-renowned hotel, which ceased operations more than a decade ago, has become a target for break-ins and vandalism. The council has given the owner seven days to outline plans for repairing roof damage and installing protective fencing. Failure to provide a satisfactory response will result in legal enforcement.

Current Measures Insufficient

While the owner claims that CCTV cameras and an alarm system are being installed, the council insists these measures are inadequate. Public concerns have mounted over the insufficient protection of the 16th-century structure, which has recently suffered from roof tile thefts.

Police Warning

West Mercia Police has echoed the council's demands, urging the owner to prevent further trespassing and anti-social behavior. The police have also threatened legal action if improvements are not made.

Council's Frustration

Councillor Richard Morris expressed disappointment over the lack of tangible action, stating: "Unfortunately, assurances we have been given to date have not been backed up by action, so we have had to take this next step."

Development Delays and Future Plans

Outline permission for partial demolition, repair, refurbishment, and conversion of the hotel into a residential, hospitality, and leisure complex was granted in 2022. However, progress stalled until a section 106 planning agreement, detailing necessary infrastructure and project phases, was signed. With this agreement now in place, development can proceed.

Councillor Morris acknowledged the lengthy delays, attributing them to global circumstances and project viability issues. "We have all been extremely annoyed and frustrated by how long this development has taken. However, the granting of full planning permission is a significant step forward that will allow the owner to start planning for work to start in earnest," he said.

The council and community now await the owner's response, hopeful that the historic Raven Hotel will soon be safeguarded and revitalized. Photo by Tanya Dedyukhina, Wikimedia commons.