Efforts are underway to rescue the Old Falcon after 20 years of neglect; redevelopment plans supported by local council.
The Old Falcon is a very old building, a three-story inn from the 1400s. This building has been empty for about 20 years and has major structural problems, according to reports. Whitfield Property wants to fix it.
The project plans to keep key historic parts. Two back wings will be torn down for new houses. An expert said people are very interested in the building and spoke at a committee meeting recently.
The expert explained the building’s problems, stating that it got worse while empty and was vandalized. He thinks the project can fix the issues and give the old hotel a future.
The expert said it cannot be a hotel anymore, but the shops could be a store or a bar. He shared that the plans are the best option and this will revive the famous Old Falcon.
The town council is on board too. They said this project helps the town improve, and one councillor said they are happy with the plans, stating the hotel is important to the town.
A local group mostly agrees with the plans. But, they hope one shop becomes a bar or restaurant as this relates to the historic use of the building.
The council committee supports the project and they want an agreement for flood risk. A councillor said it has been a problem for years, and he thinks that it is a great chance to fix it.
Another councillor knows it needs much work and hopes the project can start soon. One member worried about flooding in new homes. The Environment Agency also shares concerns.
Officials are talking about flood risks. They asked the council to let them solve it. One concerned council member wanted more info. The committee supports the project with the flood agreements solved; otherwise, they may reject it.