Historic England said in its objection: “The high level of harm that would result from the current proposals is not considered to be outweighed by the potential public or heritage benefits.”
It said its concerns included the lack of condition surveys to prove alternative, less harmful redevelopment options were unviable, and there was a lack of evidence showing firm interest from hotel operators with demand for a new hotel not clearly established.
Historic England said despite objections, it remained supportive “in principle” of the site’s development and acknowledged the need for its regeneration and new uses.
It said retaining more of the original buildings would allow a clear reading of the foundry’s architectural and industrial evolution – even after the front office range was lost in a 2018 fire.
Public consultation on the application is ongoing, with a decision expected later this year.