Derelict hotel to be converted into seven flats

The hotel has been empty for a number of years

A historic former hotel that has been derelict for a number of years could be converted into flats with a commercial space on the ground floor.

Previously owned by Undercover Boss star Alfie Best, the Grade II listed Hop Pole Hotel has stood empty on Market Square in Bromyard.

The building is now in "an advanced state of disrepair" with "significant water ingress" and "some structural instability", according to a planning application submitted to Herefordshire Council.

The proposals include turning the upper three floors, including the loft, into seven flats, which developers said would help meet the demand for smaller, more affordable homes in the area.

Mr Best bought the hotel in 2019 with plans to turn it into luxury accommodation, for which planning permission was granted in early 2023.

That scheme did not progress, with Mr Best, founder of mobile home park company Wyldecrest Parks, citing restrictive planning conditions and local objections.

The property was sold at auction in May last year for £174,000.

The latest plans would see the building's exterior mostly unchanged, with the exception of "discreet" new rooflights being installed.

The flats would lack gardens or parking spaces, but discussions were under way with the council to secure four dedicated spaces in a neighbouring car park, according to the plans.

The ground floor would remain as a commercial hospitality space, which could be a pub or restaurant.

The planning application stated the scheme had already received the backing of the town's mayor and other local councillors.

A report on local priorities produced by the town council at the start of this year highlighted the deteriorating state of the Hop Pole as one of locals' main concerns about the town.

Comments on the new planning application can be made until 18 September.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.