Legal action planned to address safety concerns at former Raven Hotel
Wychavon District Council seeks demolition order as building condition worsens
Legal proceedings are being considered against the owner of the former Raven Hotel in Droitwich Spa due to ongoing safety concerns linked to the building's deterioration.
The building, which was severely damaged by a fire last August, contains sections identified by structural engineers as unstable and at risk of collapsing.
Read more: Droitwich: centuries-old Raven Hotel bursts into flames
Wychavon District Council is preparing to approach the court to obtain an order demanding the demolition of non-historic parts of the structure deemed most likely to collapse.
Recent evaluations from the council's Building Control team have underscored the need for demolition on safety grounds.
Efforts have already been made to safeguard the area, with the road in front of the site closed and metal fencing erected to create a buffer zone.
Despite these measures, the building's owner has not yet initiated demolition work.
Wychavon has reinforced security by upgrading fencing following repeated incidences of trespassing.
Conversations with groups such as Historic England and local councils are ongoing to establish a sustainable resolution.
The council previously took legal action in November 2024 after roof sections fell into the road.
Meanwhile, attempts to recoup money spent on urgent safety interventions continue.
'Our priority is public safety'
Cllr Richard Morris, Leader of Wychavon, said that the council is committed to public safety and will pursue necessary court actions if the owner fails to act.
He added: “It’s disappointing we have once again got to step in to force the owner to meet their most basic legal responsibilities. We have given them every chance to make the building safe but typically have seen no action. We now have no option but to go through the courts.
“Our priority is, and always will be, public safety. If the owner won’t act, we will. I share residents’ frustrations we are in this situation, but we’re determined to push forward and work with our partners to find a long-term solution which will deliver the best outcome for the people of Droitwich Spa.”