A derelict 1970s apartment block in Ross-on-Wye is set to be replaced by a striking new development, as Cotswold House Builders, which bought the property earlier this year, unveil its plans for six modern apartments on Wye Street.

The proposed scheme, which has been submitted to Herefordshire’s planning department, aims to transform the neglected Riverview Flats into a contemporary gateway to the town’s historic conservation area.

The site, long considered an eyesore, sits adjacent to several Grade II listed buildings and within view of the River Wye and the town’s iconic church. While the existing structure has been vacant since 2017, the new design, which builds on a design granted planning permission earlier this year, promises a sustainable, low-energy building featuring solar panels, air source heat pumps, and green roofs.

Supporters argue the scheme offers a much-needed architectural refresh and aligns with national planning policy encouraging high-quality, sustainable development. However, critics have raised concerns over the building’s scale, materials, and potential impact on the area’s historic character.

The proposal includes enhanced landscaping, ecological mitigation, and a housing mix tailored to local needs. A final decision now rests with planners, who must weigh heritage sensitivities against the promise of regeneration.

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