BOROUGH councillors say they do not want to see ‘historically important’ Foxlydiate Hotel demolished – even though the decision ultimately rests with Bromsgrove District Council (BDC).
The Birchfield Road hotel, is on the edge of Redditch but lies in the administrative area of BDC, has been earmarked for demolition by owners Whitbread with 46 houses, 24 apartments and a children’s play area set to replace it.
At Redditch Borough Council’s planning meeting on Wednesday, July 17, councillors expressed their desire to keep the pub, which they consider of local importance.
Coun Anthony Lovell (Con, Winyates) said: “I had my first bar job at the Foxlydiate and was there for about three years.
“I absolutely loved it. I really believe it was and is a great asset to this town’s history.
“Eventually I think we will end up being poorer for it, because buildings like this one add hidden values and character to the town.”
Councillors were not considering the merits of the application or deciding the outcome, but instead offering BDC their opinions.
The site is located in the Tardebigge Ward of Bromsgrove and within the Bentley Pauncefoot Parish Council area.
County Councillor Robin Lunn has launched a campaign to have it retained as a Community Asset.
Coun Matt Dormer, Leader of Redditch Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Planning, said: “We agree there could be a development there that brings new homes that people sorely need.
“But it should not come at the cost of a building that’s a part of the town’s history.
“We’ve already lost too many key historic buildings in Redditch to hasty demolitions.”
