PLANS to demolish an "integral" part of the famous Chateau Impney Hotel and replace it with a new bungalow have outraged historical groups and residents.

Impney Hotels, which owns the impressive Droitwich-based building, want to demolish the existing Middle Lodge and build a new bungalow and garage elsewhere on the site for the manager to live in.

The plans, which have been revised since a similar application was refused in February, also involve landscaping the front entrance of the hotel, where the existing red brick and tile building is.

But fierce opposition has come from the Droitwich History and Archaeology Society, the Droitwich Spa Civic Society, and from at least half a dozen locals.

The fact the lodge has been on the site since the hotel was built in the mid-1870s, and that a modern building would harm the character of the area, are just two of the reasons given as to why the application should be refused.

"We see absolutely no reason for the demolition of the lodge, which was part of entrepreneur John Corbett's original vision for the site," said Frank Hazzard, spokesman for the Civic Society.

"We are also frightened that if Wychavon District Council allows a new bungalow it would be the start of a bigger development."

Impney Hotels have said the lodge has been unoccupied for some time and is in poor condition.

But Lyn Blewitt, chairman of the Droitwich History and Archaeology Society, argued that it could be restored.

"The lodge is an integral part of the planned Victoria Impney landscape," she said, in a letter to the council.

"It is a typical Corbett-style building, like many others in the area, and has a 'group value', with the other components of the area.

"The landscape around the Chateau Impney is an important and highly visible part of our local cultural heritage and deserves protection.

"The lodge could be sympathetically restored to its appearance, modernised and extended, to provide accommodation."

Robin Carr, the manager of the hotel, said he did not wish to comment on the public response to the application.

The application will be considered by Wychavon District Council's development control committee this Thursday.

Planning officers have recommended councillors approve the plans.