If you’ve walked past the old BHS building on Bridge Street recently, you might have noticed something unusual: actual signs of life. After years of gathering dust and looking decidedly sorry for itself, contractors have been spotted on site, sparking rumours across town. Is the hotel finally happening? Is it just safety repairs?
Thanks to a deep dive into planning registers from the Stratford-upon-Avon council, I can reveal exactly what is going on.
The “Secret” Application
The activity you’ve seen isn’t the start of a full-blown construction project just yet. Instead, it’s a legal move.
On October 1st, developers lodged a specific application (25/02398/LDE) with the District Council. It’s a request for a “Lawful Development Certificate”. In plain English, the owners are asking the Council to legally confirm that they have technically “started” work on the hotel plans approved back in 2020.
Why Does This Matter?
Planning permissions usually come with a “use it or lose it” deadline – typically three years. The permission for the BHS site was set to expire, which would have forced the developers to go back to the drawing board and submit a brand-new application.
By carrying out specific “technical start” works – the small amount of work behind the building that you may have walked past – the developers can “lock in” their planning permission permanently. This secures the site’s future as a hotel without them needing to rush the full build immediately.
A Reminder: What’s The Plan?
For those who have forgotten the details since the original 2020 approval (ref: 19/02038/FUL), the plan for 13-14 Bridge Street is substantial:
- A 170-Bedroom Hotel: Expected to be operated under the “Ark” brand by Bespoke Hotels.
- Dining & Leisure: The plans include a gym, a hotel restaurant/bar, and a separate, large restaurant unit (up to 817sqm) located in the Grade II listed frontage of the building.
- Restoration: Significant works to convert, extend, and rebuild parts of the site while preserving the historic fabric.
What Happens Next?
Don’t expect to be checking in next month. This recent activity was likely just enough to satisfy the lawyers and planners. However, it is a positive sign that the Beyond Retail Property Fund (the owners) are still committed to the scheme and haven’t walked away.
For now, the “Ghost of BHS” has been exorcised – at least on paper.
