BUSINESSWOMAN Susan Jennings wants to demolish the semi-derelict hall north of St Jude’s church in Whittlesey town centre and in its place build three houses and seven flats.

Cambs Times: The empty hall on Station Rd, Whittlesey. Rear of the building.The empty hall on Station Rd, Whittlesey. Rear of the building. (Image: Archant)

The hall belonged to St Mary’s Church and was used for church events and parties until their lease ran out in 2000.

Cambs Times: Site plan for three new homes and seven flats on Station Road, WhittleseySite plan for three new homes and seven flats on Station Road, Whittlesey (Image: Archant)

It has been empty for 13 years and its condition has gradually deteriorated.

Robert Chiva, speaking on behalf of Mr and Mrs Jennings, said: “They believe the hall is not of good architectural value, does not make proper use of the site and also that retention of the hall is economically not viable.

“The roof tiles are loose and broken, a wall is bowed, the single glazed windows are broken, timber gladding is rotting and part of the flooring has rotted.

“The rest of the site is vacant and overgrown and has been so for many years.”

The site is located between Station Road and Scaldgate and is in a conservation area, with a nightclub, community centre and repair garage nearby.

The new houses will be designed to be in keeping stylistically with the existing buildings, with yellow bricks and red roof tiles.

The applicants admit the development will cause an increase in traffic in the area.