The Civic Society has raised concerns over whether “recycled designs” have been used in the Bridge Street redevelopment plans.
Stourport Civic Society has questioned whether the plans put forward for Bridge Street and whether “taxpayers are getting value for money”.
The group claims Wyre Forest District Council’s proposals for the site look very similar to designs by the same architects for Nailers Yard in Bromsgrove.
The Society warns that one of Stourport’s most important heritage sites might be getting a reused, “off-the-shelf” design instead of something created for the town.
Andrew Booton, Chairman of Stourport Civic Society, said: “Bridge Street is a sensitive conservation area site. As such, any development must, by law, preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area.
“It needs a design rooted in Stourport – not something lifted from another town.
“Stourport is not Bromsgrove. Our heritage, our streets, our character are different. The design should reflect that. In a conservation area, you have to understand the place and design for it. A recycled scheme clearly fails that test.”
The Society has also raised concerns over what the council is paying for if the design has already been developed elsewhere.
Mr Booton said: “If this design has already been developed elsewhere, what exactly are taxpayers paying for?
“People expect a full conservation analysis and original thinking — not second hand plans that could be of anywhere.
“How were the architects found and then commissioned? What brief were they working to? How did they present their proposals against the needs of the conservation area? Who at Wyre Forest District Council is scrutinising procurement, quality and value for money?”
Whilst the Society supports redeveloping the site, it has criticised the current approach as “not being good enough”.
The Society is calling for a “far more sensitive” approach to the site and its heritage surroundings.
Residents are being invited to have their say on planning guidance
Public consultation open on new planning rules for sustainable buildings
Mr Booton said: “The overall proposals are sound. The landscaping plan is welcomed but needs to be step free for inclusive access. The building needs to be set back into the site more so that it doesn’t dominate the street. That would allow for drop off/pick up bays for vehicles, which are currently causing road safety problems.
“But the buildings WFDC are proposing are wholly inappropriate for a conservation area. They must be far more sensitive to the site and its heritage surroundings. This site is too important to get wrong.
“Get it right and it can transform the town. Get it wrong and the damage will last for decades. WFDC needs to stop and rethink and deliver something that truly belongs to Stourport.”
A spokesperson for Wyre Forest District Council said: “While we recognise the comparisons being made, it’s important to note that good architectural practice often involves applying successful design principles across different sites. The proposals for Bridge Street have been developed specifically in response to Stourport’s character, heritage setting, and the opportunities presented by the location.
“We welcome feedback from all community groups, including the Civic Society, and we will continue to work with partners and stakeholders to ensure the final scheme enhances Bridge Street and complements the unique heritage of the town.”