Concerns have been raised about the future of the Station Hotel, a notable historic building located close to Gloucester Railway Station, amid visible signs of deterioration.
The hotel, which has been closed for some time, is one of the first landmarks encountered by visitors arriving by train. In 2020, Gloucester City Council rejected London and Wiltshire Ltd’s proposal to convert the first and second floors of the Grade II listed Bruton Way building into a 17-bedroom house in multiple occupation, leaving the site unused.
Public transport campaigner David Redgewell brought the matter to the council’s attention at the meeting on 24 September, highlighting concerns that rain, damp, and mould are penetrating the building through some unboarded windows. He warned that without intervention, the historic structure is at risk of further decay and urged the council to compel the owners to secure and preserve the site.
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“The building will continue to deteriorate if action is not taken. This hotel must be restored,” he emphasised.
Jeremy Hilton, then leader of Gloucester City Council, agreed on the importance of preserving the hotel, which sits adjacent to the council’s significant investment in the Forum. He noted that despite the building’s prominence, discussions with the owners regarding restoration plans have so far been unproductive.
Hilton acknowledged that stop notices have been issued owing to the building’s listed status and stressed that it is the owners’ responsibility to ensure the structure is watertight.
“We intend to follow up with the owners once more to insist on securing the building,” he said, adding that it is crucial to develop a high-quality restoration or repurposing plan that respects the building’s historic significance.
The Station Hotel remains a symbol of Gloucester’s heritage, and the council is pushing for action to safeguard its future before further damage occurs.