Future of eyesore Shropshire hotel site in doubt

The Lea Manor Hotel on the A464 near Albrighton has been derelict for years.

Plans to turn the land into a residential development were revived two years ago.

But the land has now been put up for sale with planning permission for seven homes by the private individual owner. Jannette Bevin, who works for the owner who did not wish to be named, said they had fought for 10 years to get planning permission but due to extra charges by Shropshire Council it was decided to put it on the market.

The boarded-up 16 bedroom building has been repeatedly targeted by arsonists since closing down seven years ago.

Permission was granted in 2010 for two houses by the same owner but the scheme never went ahead.

Three years later, plans were lodged to demolish the hotel and build seven homes. The move was backed by Albrighton Parish Council and residents who considered it an eyesore.

Ms Bevin said along with the planning permission the council added a number of extra costs, which means the site is no longer viable for the current owner.

She said: "The permission we have been fighting for so long is now subject to an affordable housing contribution of more than £81,900 and a £62,000 community infrastructure levy.

"We have done nothing but try to approve the site. It is no longer a viable prospect for the owner. No one will buy it because of these charges."

The site was originally Lea Farm, a residential building associated with chicken farming.

The hotel was built by late Wolverhampton businessman Robert Eaton, who sold it in 1986.

The venue was a top nightspot in the 1960s and 70s.

As well as being targeted by arsonists, the car park has also been blighted by flytippers while travellers moved on to the land twice in 2010.

Shropshire Council was not available for comment.