THE demolition and rebuilding of Ham Hill Lodge, a Grade II listed house at Powick, could soon go ahead, after being delayed by planners last year.
The 19th century chauffeur's lodge (above right) in the grounds of Queensberry House, Ham Lane, was in disrepair when present owner, Michael Jackson, bought the properties five years ago.
His plan to demolish and rebuild the lodge, using the original materials, is opposed by the Georgian Group, a national charity dedicated to preserving historic buildings. They want want to see the present structure retained and renovated.
Decision delayed
A Malvern Hills planning committee delayed a decision last year to allow members to see it for themselves.
Planning officers say repairing the two-storey building would cost considerably more than a total rebuild and would not be a viable solution.
They are recommending approval of the plans for demolition, subject to conditions governing the method of deconstruction and re-use of salvaged materials.
The plan to rebuild the lodge on the same site is also recommended for approval tomorrow evening.
"It is considered that the historical importance of the Lodge and its relationship to the main house is sufficient to justify granting planning permission, but with conditions to control the quality of the work," says the officer's report.
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