Heritage ‘risk’ as manor to become care facility
AGRAND Victorian mansion – one of Solihull’s most historic buildings – is to be redeveloped, despite claims that changes would “destroy” local heritage. Councillors this week approved plans to transform Grade II-listed Tudor Grange House into a 139-unit care facility.
Earlier plans were signed-off two years ago, but a fresh scheme was submitted after the 19th century property, in Blossomfield Road, was sold to a new owner.
Historic England and the Victorian Society had both raised concern about a new block in the 100-yearold walled garden, while residents warned the borough was being swamped with care homes.
But developers the Macc Group argued the project would save the red-brick home “from further decay” and, despite some reservations, the planning committee gave the goahead. Diane Owen, speaking on behalf of residents objecting to the plans, said that the historic site should remain “intact” for future generations to enjoy.
Her statement, read out to the committee, said: “Tudor Grange House has been part of Solihull’s heritage since 1887 and should remain accessible for the public to admire in its original form. “Extensions should not be attached to the house or stables, spoiling the original architecture.
“All original internal features should be preserved, including fireplaces, extensive wood panels and stained glass windows.”
She also voiced concerns that both building teams and care staff would park in surrounding roads and that it was “yet another care home on a main road into Solihull.”
The proposals would see an 80-bed care home, 12 assisted living units and 47 residential units open on-site.
Louise Brooke-Smith, acting
for the developers, insisted the scheme would provide “much-needed” facilities and bring an “abandoned” building back into use.
“Currently Tudor Grange sits derelict and deteriorating at the hands of vandals,” she said. “As officers and residents will be aware, there have been a number of break-ins at the property in recent times.”
She said that much of the scheme was similar to the one granted permission in 2018, but a more “viable” mix of accommodation was now included.
Cllr Maggie Allen (Green, Shirley West) said: “I am very disappointed to see yet another care home. We have got a glut of them to be honest. “However, on the other hand, this is an absolutely superb building (and) it is a shame it is becoming derelict.
“I think it’s probably a pity that the National Trust can’t take it on.”
Cllr Glenis Slater (Lib Dem, Elmdon) echoed the concern about the number of similar applications coming forward but accepted that old buildings take a lot of time and money to maintain.
“I think if they can do this sympathetically and keep it to its original design it might turn out to be quite an asset – the actual big building itself.
“But I’m not too sure about all the new buildings that are going around it, I’m rather concerned about them especially the building going in the walled garden.”
The plans were approved by a majority of eight to one.