Developers say they are “hopeful” that councillors will approve a major regeneration scheme in Lichfield when it is considered early next year.
Friel Homes submitted a full planning application for 1 Beacon Street in 2020 after three years of preparatory work.
The development will see construction carried out on and around the former Angel Croft Hotel site.
The proposals include refurbishment of the Grade II listed Westgate House to create five new homes, as well as the conversion of an outbuilding into a detached property.
It will also see the conversion and extension of Westgate Cottage as a boutique hotel and spa, along with apartments and new homes.
Access to the area has also been earmarked for improvement with a bridge over Leamonsley Brook included as part of the development.
A spokesperson for Friel Homes said the plans were expected to be discussed by members of Lichfield District Council’s planning committee early in 2022.
“We understand there are over 40 letters of support for this application and no objections from residents of Lichfield.
“Multiple organisations have confirmed support for our proposals including Beacon Street Area Residents’ Association, Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield Civic Society and Lichfield Cathedral.
“Given the widespread public support for the scheme, we are hopeful that the planning committee will recognise this opportunity for Lichfield to evolve and improve on a deliverable site.”
Friel Homes spokesperson
The spokesperson said the project had been given lengthy consideration as part of the process of developing the formal planning application.
They added that the scheme would provide “public benefits at no cost to the public purse” by safeguarding listed buildings, making improvements on Beacon Street and creating new cycling and walking routes into the city from Beacon Park.
“For the past year following submission, we have continued to engage with Lichfield District Council and other stakeholders.
“Many design changes were made in response to feedback from the conservation officer.
“Our proposed scheme provides the following public benefits at no cost to the public purse.
“Given that we have been discussing these proposals with the council since 2017, we were both surprised and disappointed that our site in the heart of the conservation area was not included in the 2020 Lichfield City Centre Masterplan.
“Despite this, our proposals would deliver several key masterplan objectives including creating new vistas, increasing connectivity and improving the Bird Street and Swan Road junction.”
Friel Homes spokesperson
Full details on the development proposals are available on Lichfield District Council’s planning website.
