Residents support call for housing at former Cookley hospital site (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Residents support call for housing at former Cookley hospital site

7:50am Wednesday 27th February 2013 in News By William Tomaney

A PROPOSAL to include housing in a mixed-use redevelopment of a former Cookley hospital site has gained widespread support from residents.

About 60 Wolverley and Cookley residents attended a public meeting at Cookley Village Hall last Friday to discuss the Planning Inspectorate’s modifications to Wyre Forest District Council’s site allocations and policies local plan.

The district council had already suggested developing the former Lea Castle Hospital site for business, health, sport and recreational uses but following a review of the plans it was recommended housing should also be included.

Neighbouring residents at the meeting unanimously agreed that would be ok.

Labour councillor for Cookley ward, Chris Nicholls, who led the meeting, said: “There were some excellent contributions with a general agreement it was essential the site was developed.”

A resident of The Crescent, who did not want to be named, said: “I am happy to see this happen because the sooner something is done with the land the better. The buildings are falling into disrepair now and they are an eyesore from my property.”

The hospital closed in 2008 and has since become a target for metal thieves.

To read the district council’s plan, visit wyreforestdc.gov.uk