AN ENTREPRENEUR has unveiled plans to convert a former Shatterford rehabilitation centre into a £7.5million luxury housing development.

James Driscoll MBE, who created the award-winning children’s cartoon series The Shoe People, has planning permission to convert the 6.4 acre Park Attwood Estate into five houses, four luxury apartments and a penthouse.

It is hoped work could start as early as April with the first apartment ready for occupation by October or November.

The development is being mostly funded by Mr Driscoll and his son Adam, who own the site, but they have opened a Simply Crowdfunding initiative that will see £850,000 worth of shares released for people to buy into the project.

They bought Park Attwood in 2010. Originally a manor house, the estate was sold in 1938 and it became a hotel.

It later became a country club, then a therapeutic clinic and more recently a neuro rehabilitation centre before closing in 2015.

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Mr Driscoll applied for planning permission for the project in 2015 and full residential planning consent was granted in February 2017.

The existing building will be converted into the apartments while the five houses will be built on the grounds. Work to restore the landscape to its former glory will also take place.

Mr Driscoll, who lives in Chaddesley Corbett, said: “Our vision is to provide beautiful homes and apartments in what is a truly stunning setting.

“After we obtained planning permission, we received many enquiries from people interested in acquiring he site but we made the decision to keep it and redevelop it ourselves.

“The properties will be ideal for families or young professionals; it is an excellent location with quick access to Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport with fantastic schools around.”

To oversee the development, Mr Driscoll has appointed project manager Reza Palmer and Khoury Architects - both based in nearby Stourbridge.

He said he will also be inviting local builders and contractors to submit tenders for the project.

He added: “Throughout my business career I have always endeavoured to provide opportunities for local people to get involved.

“By making this development available through crowdfunding, people can own a share of Park Attwood and learn about the development process. If it is successful - and there is no reason why it shouldn’t be - then it will be a great investment.”

People can find out more about the project, plans and share sale by visiting https://www.simplecrowdfunding.co.uk/property/detail/856

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