Appeal over Wolverhampton homes refusal sparks uproar
Residents in Penn have reignited a campaign to save one of the area's oldest buildings after developers appealed Wolverhampton council's decision to block plans to turn it into terraced houses.
Builder Kevin Koren wants to gut the 400-year-old cottage at 15 Church Hill and transform it into two four-bedroom properties. He also wants to build a two-bedroom bungalow in the back garden with a separate entrance on The Fold.
The plans were thrown out twice this year by council planning chiefs, but Mr Koren has now lodged an appeal over the decision with the national planning inspectorate.
More than 100 residents joined forces to oppose the original plans, which were rejected on the grounds that the development would be out of character with the area and would lead to a loss of privacy for neighbours.
Margaret Large, aged 80, who lives next to the property, said: "At the moment the building is boarded up. It's a complete eyesore. I'm not adverse to redevelopment providing its done in a tasteful manner that keeps to the traditions of the original building.
"These plans will have a detrimental effect on the area in terms of blocking our views and creating overcrowding.
"The cottage is one of the oldest buildings in Penn and no one around here wants to see it ruined.
"A lot of us are horrified at the thought of what could happen if the planning inspectorate decides to let this go through. On a personal level it will destroy my happiness."
Penn councillors' Paul Singh, Patricia Patten and Martin Waite are among those who have supported residents in their fight against the proposals.
Mr Singh said: "This is an issue that has caused a lot of concern within the ward. We want to treasure our old buildings, not see them destroyed.
"The cottage is not listed, but it is a landmark that everyone in the area knows and wants to see preserved. Across the city as a whole we have to fight to keep hold of buildings of character.
"I will be supporting residents on this issue and hope that the planning inspectorate comes to the right decision."
Mr Koren bought the cottage last year for £240,000. He has already stripped out the insides of the property and removed windows and doors.
The planning inspectorate are due to rule on the appeal later this year following a site inspection.
Mr Koren was unavailable for comment.
