New flats planned for listed city centre building

Part of a listed building in Worcester city centre is to be converted into flats - a project drawing a mixed response from special interest conservationists.

The upper floors of 2 The Cross in Worcester, as well as the back part of the ground floor, will be turned into seven one-bedroom apartments, although the existing interior layout will remain.

The front of the ground floor of the building, which according to Historic England dates from the early 18th century, is currently home to the Skipton Building Society.

Worcester City Council, which has approved plans for the conversion, said most of the building had been empty for between three and 10 years.

The plans say the development will provide "much-needed housing" in the city.

Worcester Civic Society welcomed plans to leave the external appearance of the building unchanged.

"It is accepted minor repair and redecoration work to the windows will be required to bring the building up to standard," the society said.

The Hopmarket Charity, which owns similar properties in The Foregate, said it had no objection if the flats were "of a high quality and presumably privately managed".

But the Georgian Group, which promotes the conservation of Georgian buildings, said it had "serious concerns" about the plans.

A spokesperson for the Georgian Group said: "These works are likely to cause a considerable degree of harm to the historic fabric and significance of the grade II* listed building."

Council planners said the proposals were "of a sensitive design" and would complement the character of the area.

The owners of nearby nightclub Bushwhackers had also expressed concern that future occupants of the proposed flats would be affected by noise from the venue.

But planners said concerns over noise had been considered and the plans "would not result in unacceptable living conditions".

The council said no car parking spaces would be provided as the site was in a "sustainable location" in the city centre.

But there will be space for seven bicycles, in line with planning rules.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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