A vacant plot of land next to a popular city pub could soon be transformed into a new two-bedroom house, if councillors give the green light next week.
Plan for Vacant Plot in St John's
An application has been submitted to build a residential property on an empty piece of land situated between the Grosvenor Arms pub and a row of three terraced houses on Henwick Road in the St John's area of Worcester. The plot is currently notable for a vibrant mural painted on the side of the pub, created by Mind 49 for the Worcester Paint Festival.
The proposed dwelling is designed to mirror the style, scale, and height of the existing neighbouring homes on Bromyard Terrace, with which it would share access. Key local architectural features, such as flat roofs and rendered projecting bays, would be incorporated to maintain the visual continuity of the street scene.
Officers Recommend Approval
Planning officials at Worcester City Council have assessed the proposal and are recommending it for approval. Their report states that the currently vacant condition of the land negatively impacts the well-presented neighbourhood. The development is classified as an infill project, which would make effective use of land in an established residential area.
The design includes measures to minimise the impact on the adjacent pub. A gap will be maintained between the new house and the Grosvenor Arms to create a visual boundary. The difference in building heights will also ensure the new home is subordinate to the prominent pub building.
Features and Final Decision
The plans for the new house include:
- A single parking bay at the rear of the property.
- A private garden area of approximately 50 square metres.
- The installation of solar panels on the roof.
The application was called in for review by St John's councillor Richard Udall. The final decision now rests with the city's planning committee, which is scheduled to meet on Thursday, 22 January 2026.
If approved, the development would replace the empty plot with a new home, addressing what planners describe as a sustainable use of land in a central location.
