Shropshire Star

Supermarket and flats bid for disused Telford pub

A Grade Two listed former pub in Telford could be converted into a supermarket and apartments under new plans.

Published
The former Beacon Hotel, in Ironbridge Road, Madeley. Photo: Google StreetView.

Agents behind the plans said the Beacon Hotel, in Ironbridge Road, Madeley, had developed a bad reputation before finally closing.

But the new conversion would turn the disused building into a convenience store, they said.

Under the proposals, the ground floor would be converted into a supermarket while the first and second floors would become self-contained apartments. Existing extensions would be knocked down and replaced.

The agents have put together the plans on behalf of owners Basin Topco.

Paul Sturgess, spokesman for agents the Caldecotte Group, said: “We have been working with an operator for a long time finalising their requirements, which fit into the fabric of the listed building.”

Heritage experts said the Beacon Hotel had lost much of its history in its conversion to a pub.

Dr Mark Grahame, of Marc Heritage, wrote: “This assessment has concluded that the special architectural and historic interests of the property reside primarily in its outward appearance, where much of its Georgian character is still present. The remaining elevation has been compromised by the addition of late 20th and early 21st extensions.

“The historic interior of the property has been eroded substantially. The conversion of the property to a public house with flats during the late 20th century has largely overwritten its historic character and appearance.

“The proposals to demolish and replace the late 20th and early 21st extensions are the most substantial of the proposed changes.

“The best way to ensure the long-term preservation and conservation of a listed building is for it to continue in use and the proposals are designed to ensure that the property can be brought back into use.”

Telford & Wrekin Council will make a decision on the plans in the coming months.