CALLS for action have been made after debris fell from the roof of a historic hotel causing 'great concern'.

Safety fears were raised after debris fell from the roof of the former Raven Hotel building and into St Andrew's Street, Droitwich forcing the road to close.

Wychavon district councillor John Grady, who represents Droitwich South East, said: "Personally, I would like to see the building taken into public ownership - that's the safest route.

"It has tremendous potential to be an asset to the community in Droitwich, and it's such a historic property.

"Of course, there would be legal factors to consider, funding obstacles - it wouldn't be a simple process of course.

"But this building must be restored and made use of so that the public can gain access to it."

Firefighters used an aerial ladder platform to remove further loose materials from the roof to ensure it didn't present any further danger.

A statement released by Wychavon District Council highlighted recent heavy rainfall as the likely cause of the loose debris.

Reacting to Tuesday's incident, Cllr Grady added: "I was greatly concerned about the building and its security risk to the public.

"An assessment of the property is now being done, but that won't help find a solution for the building's future.

"What we need to do is put pressure on the developers to move forward with their approved plans."

In a statement released on Tuesday evening (September 24), Wychavon District Council said that recent heavy rainfall was the likely cause of the loose debris. (Image: Contributed)

Initial approval for owners and developers Inroka to restore the former Raven Hotel and turn it into a mixed residential, hospitality and leisure space was granted in 2022.

By September this year, the legally-binding Section 106 agreement was signed - meaning plans were fully greenlit.

Worcestershire county councillor Richard Morris said: "I think [the incident] puts more pressure on the owners as they carry forward their live planning application.

"I'll be asking Wychavon District Council to have bold and effective communication with the owners - that's the best way forward.

"The building has become an eyesore, but it's actually one of our star heritage buildings.

"It's a jewel in the town that needs to be accessible to the public again."