Derelict Kidderminster pub may be transformed into restaurant and homes

The Barrel in Bromsgrove Street, believed to date back to the 1820s, has been dubbed an eyesore.

A planning application for the conversion and extension of the pub building has been submitted to Wyre Forest District Council by Venture Construction and Developments Ltd.

Formerly the Freemason's Arms, the building itself is known to have been used by the committee of the weavers' union to co-ordinate the great strike by carpet weavers which took place in 1828.

The pub was later associated with the Chartists' campaign for greater democracy, including the vote for working men.

Council officials have pointed out that the staircase within the building is a real item of historic importance and as such has been retained as part of the design proposals.

Developers say that although the property is not of high architectural interest it does "have a rich history in heritage terms" and is claimed to be worthy of retention.

It was a prominent public house in its time and was closely associated with the Chartists campaign, which was a widespread movement among the working classes of the early to mid-19th century, calling for political reform.

The planning application states that there is parking nearby in the town centre and that the design also incorporates safe storage for up to 16 cycles in a secure lock-up area, in order to encourage the use of sustainable transport by residents.

Steven Greybanks, of Central Building Design Ltd, of Kidderminster, an agent for the developers, said: "We have held conversations with the conservation architect with Wyre Forest District Council and everyone seems to agree that it would be good to bring back into use this important building in the town.

"The date of construction is unknown, but may have been in the 1820s when the grid of streets comprising Bromsgrove Street, Lion Street, George Street, Cross Street, South Street and Fair Street were constructed.

"However a much earlier date linked to the 18th century Lion Hotel was suggested by historians.

"Historians have said that the Barrel, or Freemason's Arms as it was known previously, was originally intended for the coachmen and footmen so that they could be accessible while their masters were taking their ease in the Lion.

"The existing building consists of a basement with three floors above.

"The plan is to create a restaurant and eight one-bedroomed flats."

Councillor Helen Dyke, of Wyre Forest District Council, said: "It is an eyesore which has been commented on by many local people.

"The building needs work doing on it.

"It is a good thing that it is being brought back into use and this is a positive step forward as part of the town centre regeneration."