Droitwich Spa's Raven Hotel salvageable after fire, experts say
Mr Montez, who was there as Historic England met the building owners Inroka Limited and councillors on Tuesday to talk about next steps, said the main structure dated back to the 15th Century.He said it was an important building for the town and, despite the extent of the damage, added that posts and trusses were still standing. "There is structure still within the building," he said.The architect said the owners already had permission to demolish 60% of the site at the back of the building, with the core parts and oldest sections remaining.He said: "The likelihood is that demolition will happen to the rear, bringing down the wall in the middle and then securing what's left, and then clearing it for a proper assessment of what survives."
John Armstrong, from Droitwich Civic Society, said: "There's no reason why the Elizabethan part of the Raven can't be saved."If the French can save Notre Dame, pulling together, we can save the Raven for the future."That would be something to be really proud of, and something the people of Droitwich Spa can look forward to."Wychavon District Council leader Richard Morris said Tuesday's meeting was "very constructive".He said Historic England representatives looked at the hotel and said there was a "saveable" building."Their impression before they arrived, was that it was ashes," he added.
A spokesperson for Historic England said one of its specialist structural engineers would assess the building, and added the organisation was providing advice to the council.Two girls, 13 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of arson and have since been released on bail.
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