Town council has its say on plan to turn former Ludlow restaurant into homes

A town council has had its say on plans to convert a former restaurant into housing.

Last month developers Justine Cawley Property applied to Shropshire Council for permission to change Ludlow’s former Chang-Thai premises on Market Street into 10 apartments.

It came after a previous application in 2025 to turn the building into 11 apartments was rejected.

Now Ludlow Town Council has offered its views on the new plan, saying it welcomes the proposal but wants to see the number of apartments cut further to create “more spacious and liveable homes”.

A statement from the council said: “Ludlow Town Council welcomes the opportunity to see the former Chang-Thai building on Market Street sympathetically refurbished and brought back into use. The latest planning application proposes much-needed housing while ensuring that this prominent building is maintained and improved for the future.

“As part of its response, the council has highlighted several amendments that would help ensure the development is suitable for future residents and the wider community.

“The council believes the number of flats should be reduced from 10 to eight, creating more spacious and liveable homes. It also supports retaining and enhancing the existing garden space, with additional greenery to encourage wildlife and provide a positive outlook for neighbouring properties.”

The council also said it wants to ensure the apartments are not used as holiday lets.

It said: “Further recommendations include increasing the bin storage area and adjusting the layout to reduce the impact on the adjacent flat. The council has also emphasised the importance of ensuring the homes are used as permanent residences rather than holiday lets, helping address the shortage of local housing and supporting a stable community.

“Together, these changes would help deliver a high-quality, sustainable development that benefits future residents while protecting the character of the building and its surrounding area.

“The council looks forward to seeing the site restored and contributing positively to Ludlow’s historic town centre.”

A decision on the application will be taken at a later date.