PLANS have been mooted to demolish a former glass and vehicle repair building in Kidderminster after claims of several break-ins raised concerns that an injury could be just around the corner.
An application has been submitted to the Wyre Forest District Council asking for permission to demolish the single-storey building on Worcester Road, which was formerly occupied by GGP Glass Ltd and Collision Repair Specialists Ltd.
Application submitted
The applicants, Silvafin Developments Ltd, is currently considering proposals for the redevelopment of the site and has sought pre-application advice from Wyre Forest District Council.
Silvafin Developments has recently taken vacant possession of the site and buildings.
In planning documents, it is claimed the buildings were in a very poor state of repair, with some parts inaccessible due to safety concerns and structural instability.
The applicants claimed the site was causing some issues, with several break-ins.
Safety concerns
There were fears those entering the site illegally were at risk of injury due to the current state of the buildings.
If the building demolition is given the green light, the rubble will remain on the site currently for re-use as part of the proposed redevelopment.
Anything unsuitable for re-use will be removed and disposed of by either the demolition contractor or a licensed waste contractor.
The nuisance assessment team has said the submitted demolition method statement appears adequate in terms of minimising noise and dust emissions.
Consultation
A consultation will take place, which will last until December 1.
Police have told the Standard there have been no reported incidents relating to this location.
A West Mercia Police spokesperson said: “We would always remind people of the dangers of entering abandoned sites or buildings.
“They are often structurally unsafe or could contain hazardous substances, such as asbestos, and going into these places would be putting yourself in harm’s way.
“Not only is the trespassing dangerous but you could be committing a criminal offence when this amounts to Anti Social Behaviour or criminal damage.”
Visit the Wyre Forest District Council planning portal and search planning reference 25/0824/DEM for more on the application and to take part in the consultation.
