Former maternity unit to become workshops

Ludlow's former maternity unit building is set to be converted into workshops and offices.

Messrs Godrich and Bergius submitted an application to convert the building in May this year.

The proposal received no objections and was supported by local councillors.

Tracey Huffer, Shropshire Councillor for Ludlow East says: “A lot of concern has blown up in the last day or so after incorrect information that the former maternity unit is to be demolished for housing. The building was closed for any health service use after decades of lack of maintenance. It is no longer fit for health purposes."

“There is a whole ward empty in the more modern building next door."

“We absolutely need to keep a hospital in Ludlow. It is becoming a forlorn hope that the maternity unit will reopen for live births. We are completely opposed to treatment, diagnostic and support services being withdrawn from Ludlow. We want to see more services here in the future to save people having to undertake lengthy journeys to Shrewsbury or Telford.”

Andy Boddington, Shropshire Councillor for Ludlow North added: “This building could have been demolished and converted to a car park or new buildings erected. That would not have been a good option in our carbon conscious age. The building, although not listed, is also part of historic East Hamlet and should be retained if at all possible.

“We would like to thank Godrich & Bergius for being open about their plans and working with local councillors from the outset to bring this scheme forward. We are desperately short of space for small enterprises in Ludlow. We need projects like this to allow south Shropshire’s community, culture and economy to thrive. Planning permission is expected to be granted in the next few days.”

The new businesses will take over around a dozen car parking spaces in the Gravel Hill car park. There will be no obstruction of access to the hospital rear access or for ambulances.