Supporters of Wellington’s Charlton Arms are working on a plan to bring the hotel back to life after a planning application was rejected by the government this week.
Planning inspector Jeremy Sargent dismissed plans for the town’s civic hotel to be turned into apartments following an appeal on July 29.
Discussions have now been held with Liverpool-based owners, Nextdom, who are said to be ‘wide open to suggestions’ over the 19th century listed building.
David Riley, president of Wellington Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber welcomed the appeal decision.
“It is now critical that all interested parties work constructively to try and secure a viable future for the Charlton Arms,” he said.
“The longer the premises remains vacant the worse the dilapidation will become, increasing the cost of refurbishment.
“I know from discussions with Nextdom, that they are wide open to suggestions and the Chamber of Commerce is happy to help facilitate talks should anyone wish to contact them.”
Councillor Eric Carter, portfolio holder for regeneration, said he wants to see the Charlton Arms preserved.
“We are delighted the appeal has been refused and hope the hotel will be brought back to what it once was,” he said. “Get this facility back up and running. This is what I will be suggesting.
“The Charlton Arms is a building we are very keen to preserve. It is an iconic grade two listed building and the inspectorate realised that.”
Nextdom had planned to demolish the premise’s extensions and convert the original listed building into 11 flats, with a further 31 flats on the car park.
The plans were rejected by Telford & Wrekin last year.
In his appeal decision report Mr Sargent said: “I consider the harm to the conservation area and the setting of the listed building constitutes a sound reason to refuse planning permission.
“I conclude I have been unable to reach the view that these works would preserve this Grade II listed building and any features of special architectural or historic interest that it possesses.”
Councillor Carter said it was down to the hard work of Telford & Wrekin planning officers that the decision was overturned.
Nextdom have not commented on future plans for the site.
Allan Frost, chairman of Wellington History Group, said he would like to see the building sold to someone who will re-instate the valuable service as well as preserving the architectural integrity of an historic building.
by Chrissy Symmons