Extension plan for 17th century Stourbridge Hotel

There were concerns over the future of the historic building when it closed suddenly in 2022. But the building was given a new lease of life after being taken over by Westbourne Leisure. Last year it was sold to Edgbaston-based Rosevine Services Ltd, owned by businessman Kuljinder Singh Pahal, and the new owner is seeking to expand the accommodation.

If approved, the new plans will see two extensions created at the rear of the building, and internal alterations which will see the existing conference room divided up into bedrooms.

The number of parking spaces at the rear will be reduced from 12 to 10.

A statement issued on behalf of the applicant said the frontage of the building lay in the Stourbridge conservation area. But the rear of the hotel, which had been extended at various times in the past, lay outside the zone, and was simpler in design.

It said the alterations were sympathetic to the fabric of the building.

"Despite the current timber panelling not being original, it is preserved and retained a feature in the proposed bedrooms," said the statement.

"The existing fire surrounds will also remain a feature."

The applicant said the hotel was in a town centre location which had good public transport links within walking distance

"Overall, it is considered that the proposed internal changes and rear extensions would be sympathetic to the character of the existing building and conservation area," the statement added. 

"They are modest in scale and their appearance in keeping with the look and feel of the building and surrounding context. Would not detract from the special qualities of the heritage assets nor adversely impact neighbouring buildings."

The proposals will now go before Dudley Council's planning department.