Telford building demolition opposed
More than 1,000 people have signed a petition against the demolition of a Victorian school building in Telford that was for many years home to a youth club.
Telford and Wrekin Housing Trust has submitted an application to turn the site in St Georges into 10 homes and six flats. The building on Gower Street has been empty since 2005.
The sale of the site to developers was agreed by Telford and Wrekin cabinet in October last year.
But a petition of more than 1,000 signatures was handed to Telford & Wrekin Council demanding the building is not demolished.
Commonly known as the "Gower" the building dates back to 1873 by the Lilleshall Mining Company as a hospital for its workers.
In 1879 it was converted into a school for the people of St George's and was known as the hospital school.
In later years it was given to the people of St George's by the Duke of Sutherland and was used as a community centre. Until 10 years ago it was closed because of an asbestos problem and has since fell into disrepair.
Telford & Wrekin Planning Committee will make a decision by January 22.
