A PLAN to turn a historic town centre venue into a HMO has been revealed - and it's received mixed reactions from residents.

The former La Brasserie and Three Shires Café buildings on Lower Mill Street, Kidderminster, could be turned into 21 residential co-living studio rooms, with a co-working area and coffee shop as part of a new planning application. 

The La Brasserie site was previously the home of the historic Frank Freeman Dancing Club, which hosted some of the biggest rock acts of the 1960s, including Fleetwood Mac, Fairport Convention and Captain Beefheart.

The historic building was commemorated with a Kidderminster Civic Society plaque in 2006. 

The Kidderminster Civic Society said they "broadly" support the application, but want the blue plaque to be protected.

Kidderminster Shuttle: Inside the old La BrasserieInside the old La Brasserie (Image: Dolittle & Dally)

Bob Millward, on behalf of the civic society committee, said: "We would have preferred the building to continue as commercial premises but accept that present circumstances probably preclude that option.

"At least these proposals would enable the buildings to survive".

Kidderminster Shuttle: Captain Beefheart in full swing with his Magic Band at Frank Freeman’sCaptain Beefheart in full swing with his Magic Band at Frank Freeman’s (Image: Colin Hill)

Other residents voiced their support for the plan on social media.

Sarah Frost says it sounds like a "really creative development" and called it a "great idea."

Steve Carrigan described the plan as a "good thing" for the town.

He said: "If the town centre has more housing then those people will use the town centre. Quite a simple solution. How do you put more footfall into the town? Move people into it".

Kidderminster Shuttle: The former Three Shires Café and Restaurant The former Three Shires Café and Restaurant (Image: Doolittle & Dally)

Wendy Harris added: "This will bring more people using the town centre. Hopefully supporting the existing shops and infrastructure.

"Plus there is such a shortage of affordable houses. It's a win win am hoping".

Jonathan Briscoe said it's "better than it being empty."

Others have also suggested that the buildings should remain as businesses.

Vicky Hampshire said: "I thought it was still going to be some sort of retail or restaurant there. Why another building for HMO?"

Paul Grainger added: "Bit of a shame really. Would be nice to keep it as a venue of sorts".

The planning application, which has the reference 23/0904/FUL, is now available to view on Wyre Forest District Council's planning portal.