CAMPAIGNERS battling to save the historic 16th Century Raven Inn at Glazebury, Warrington, say they would like to see it transformed into a community hub for future generations to enjoy.
They were responding to comments from property developers Osborne and Co, who have said they have listened to objections and now plan to retain the appearance of the building.
A spokesperson for the group said: “The Save the Raven campaign group remains committed to the preserving this fine example of 16th century architecture for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
“As a group we are interested in developing the building into a social hub for the use of the local community.
“We shall reserve comment on the revisions to the developer’s plan until further details have been released.”
Warrington based property developers Osborne and Co say they have “accepted the views of the majority of objections” and now plan to “change the layout and include the Raven into the amended layout.”
Chairman Michael Osborne says that at great cost, as the property is structurally very poor, the plan will now leave the visual impact of the building unchanged which should protect it forever.
He added: “It is our intention (subject to planning of course) to convert The Raven into two residential units and keep the front and side elevations as far as possible in the original form.The rear needs aesthetic and structural improvement .
“If the Raven operates as a pub again the problem is only likely to be deferred with another developer taking his scheme forward at a future date.
“This is a golden opportunity to save the iconic look of the Raven for all time.”
More than 450 objections have been made to the controversial plan to demolish the 16th century inn and build 10 houses on the site.
