AN historic part of Evesham could be knocked down to make way for flats.

Developers are seeking permission to demolish the Park View Hotel in Waterside and to replace the building with 50 apartments.

Wychavon planner Mark Lynch said the apartments would be constructed in three blocks with improved access but the application is likely to prove controversial.

He said Park View Hotel is in a conservation area and although not protected itself it is surrounded by listed buildings.

English Heritage will have to be consulted during the planning procedure.

The developers, Bricks 'N'Mortar Ltd, want to build the apartments in four-storey blocks although the structures would be no higher than the existing three-storey hotel. There would also be parking spaces.

If the proposal is eventually approved it will be a condition that a third of the flats are handed over to a registered social landlord and made available as affordable housing for people from the town.

Mr Lynch, who is part of a team dealing with the application, said there were many issues to be considered.

He said one of these includes consulting the Environment Agency about the risk of flooding in a part of the town that six years ago had water up to ceiling level.

David Way, from the Evesham Civic Society, was told by the Journal about the proposal. "This is a crucial and very prominent part of the town.

"Ideally it would continue as a hotel but residential use is the most likely. The Civic Society will be interested to see what is proposed."

It is unlikely that the planners will consider the application before the New Year.