Demolition at police HQ site is given the go ahead

The force had reapplied for listed building consent to knock down the 1960s extension to the original 1861 Woodcote building, as well as many outbuildings.

But Warwick District Council’s planning committee asked for a guarantee that it would have plans for any replacement before demolition could go ahead - and that historic former stables would have some protection.

Warwickshire Police had originally applied for demolition when it had plans to build a major new headquarters on the site. The force now plans to market the land for use as a care home. Leek Wootton parish council had called for the listed stables to be protected - as well as many trees originally proposed to be felled.

The committee voted unanimously to allow demolition, with a condition that work could not begin until a replacement is approved.