For almost 20 years, the Victoria Hotel in Newnham-on-Severn has stood derelict, casting a shadow over this charming village. Owned by BMJ International Limited, the historic 18th-century building has been closed since 2007, leaving locals frustrated by its long-standing neglect.
Villagers describe the former coaching inn as a “shambles,” with unsightly plastic wrappings around the chimneys symbolizing years of abandonment. Situated at the southern entrance to Newnham’s High Street, the Grade II-listed hotel is considered a vital part of the village’s heritage, and residents are eager to see it restored to its former glory.
The public space outside the hotel is also a source of concern. Heras fencing enclosing the property complicates access for bus users and disrupts the flow along the High Street. Efforts are underway to clarify the ownership of the land between the road and the building’s wall. A specialist in land boundaries, appointed with local highways funding following legal advice, is expected to submit a report in May to determine the highway boundary.
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Councillor Beki Hoyland (Green Party), representing Newnham at Gloucestershire County Council, provided an update at the recent parish council meeting. She highlighted the desire to resolve land ownership issues to enable the removal of the fencing, improving pedestrian access without affecting the building itself. “The Victoria Hotel should be a standout feature in a beautiful village, not caged by fencing and left to deteriorate,” she said.
From a planning perspective, Councillor Andy Moore of the Forest of Dean District Council confirmed that while official records indicate the case is closed, there have been unofficially noted plans concerning the hotel. Parish council chairman Felix Bihlmeier emphasized the issue’s persistence: “This thing will rumble on whether the district council likes it or not.”
Cllr Mike Penny expressed frustration over delays, urging officials to act: “After 20 years, it’s a shambles. A listed building with bits of plastic around the chimneys isn’t really a solution.” Although no formal planning violations have been identified, Cllr Moore promised to raise the matter with the head of planning to encourage progress.
The hotel’s owner, Brian Bennett of BMJ International Ltd, has been approached for comment but has not yet responded. Meanwhile, the community remains hopeful that ongoing discussions and forthcoming reports will pave the way for restoring this historic landmark and improving the village’s appearance and accessibility.