Hope is given in Cannock Ivy House fight
Fresh hope has been given to Cannock's historic Ivy House after a decision over whether to demolish it was delayed.
The former workhouse and hospital building, dating back to 1870, could be demolished to make way for housing, with hundreds against the decision.
The proposals to replace the building with 12 houses and four flats have sparked outrage among residents, who have collected a 1,300-name petition.
Planning bosses in Cannock were yesterday expected to give the go ahead for demolition – but deferred the decision while negotiations continue about financial contributions to the area from developers.
Staffordshire County Council agreed to sell the building to developer Wrekin Housing Trust, which has drawn up the plans.
Campaigners had urged bosses to keep it and preserve the site for future generations. Developers Wrekin Housing would contribute more than £66,000 to the area if consent is granted.
Labour's Parliamentary candidate Janos Toth told the meeting he opposes the plans.
He said: "I am backing residents to keep The Ivy House. It should not be demolished. Ivy House must be retained and only refurbished internally – this could provide quality flats for example. The decision is on a knife edge and could go either way.
"Staffordshire County Council have acted in an underhand way and washed their hands of Ivy House by selling it without listening to resident's views.
"They are more interested in asset stripping than the views of Cannock residents. Residents have been left at the peril of property developers. It is important that residents who signed a 1,000 plus strong petition are backed in their campaign.
"This fight is to preserve the historical past of Cannock."
Campaigners had attended previously packed out a meeting with developers – and dubbed it a 'farce' as county councillors did not attend. Margaret Price, 68, of Wolverhampton, said: "This building is not just significant to Cannock but to the wider areas including Cheslyn Hay, Great Wyrley, and Heath Hayes."
A decision on its future is now expected to be made at the next Cannock Council planning meeting in May.
