Dear Editor

If any planning application needs to be nipped in the bud before it shoots, it is this one.

If the Town Council, and those who represent us on Herefordshire Council don’t oppose this as a body, then in my humble opinion they don’t have the town’s future at heart.

For decades Ross-on-Wye, and I stress Wye, a river that was, not too long ago, given the accolade of the most scenic and beautiful river in the country, and in my lifetime I have seen many attractive rivers.

This closure, headlined in your last issue must have shaken the minds of many people, particularly locals. When I moved here over 30 years ago, this hotel had been the flagship of not just the town but the area, for many years.

Before moving here Ross and The Chase were synonymous with a thriving tourist attraction and known up and down the land. Are we to see this precious asset disappear into oblivion.

More housing is needed, but not here, and what kind of message does it send to other hotels?

Their claims for closure are somewhat weak in substance, ie visitors’ preference, other similar establishments seem to cope well enough. Warners at Holme Lacey, whilst a much larger company, do very well and clearly know how to attract visitors.

Whilst much smaller in area they have similar features ie the buildings and the Chase has so much potential. As for maintenance, it is always a factor and is ongoing, as it is for any structure.

I know it is in its very early stages, planning wise but in housing terms 11 acres is substantial and heaven knows how many units will eventually be on the site.

I will be most interested to read the responses from your readers. With Brexit in mind more people could be spending their holidays closer to home.

Ken Downham

Ross-on-Wye