Fiercely controversial plans to convert Wellington’s 17th Century Charlton Arms Hotel into housing have been resubmitted by developers.
Fiercely controversial plans to convert Wellington’s 17th Century Charlton Arms Hotel into housing have been resubmitted by developers.
Liverpool-based Next Dom, which is run by the hotel’s owner Aoife O’Brien, is pressing ahead with plans to turn the hotel into flats.
Miss O’Brien denied local rumours that a pub chain was set to take over the Charlton Arms.
She told the Journal: “We have not spoken to anybody about selling the Charlton Arms to a pub chain and we will be resubmitting our planning application to turn it into residential housing.”
The Charlton Arms was shut down in August 2006 after a fire left smoke damage in 22 of its bedrooms.
The proposals for residential housing were withdrawn by Miss O’Brien after being told that they would not be accepted by Telford & Wrekin Council.
She confirmed that amendments have been made to the original application, but declined to comment on the exact details.
Denis Allen, outgoing Mayor of Wellington said: “I am horrified.
“The Charlton Arms is an important part of the personality of Wellington and it’s been the meeting point for individuals and organisations for decades.”
Gary Davies, the current deputy Mayor for Telford said: “As of yet, I have not seen the amended plans.
“Naturally I am disappointed that it is not reverting back to the successful hotel it was. I hope the new plans are in keeping with the area, but I will reserve my judgement until I have seen the plans.”
Mr David Morgan from Telford & Wrekin Council said: “We have not received any new application in respect of the Charlton Arms site.
“The original application was withdrawn by the applicant.
“We would not speculate on the outcome of any future application.”
Mr Morgan said the procedure now was that officers would make a recommendation for consideration by elected members at Plans Board.
“It is members who make the final decision,” he added.
The Charlton Arms, a former coaching inn and listed building, was once the “civic hotel” for Wellington, hosting many functions.
It was also the base for several charitable organisations.