Fire Destroys Historic Grade II Raven Hotel in Droitwich, Two Arrested

A devastating fire completely destroyed the historic Grade II-listed Raven Hotel in Droitwich Spa, with no casualties reported. Eight fire engines and multiple specialist vehicles responded swiftly to the blaze, which began on the afternoon of August 10, and fire crews worked extensively to extinguish the fire and damp down residual hotspots. Police and fire investigators, including a specialist fire investigation officer, are collaborating to determine the cause, with two teenage girls arrested on suspicion of arson and released on bail. The local community expressed grief and anger, particularly towards the developer Live Urban Two and the council, with calls for the future of the site to be community-led. Wychavon District Council leader Richard Morris acknowledged efforts to take more action on the building, which had been closed as a hotel for over a decade and was undergoing council works after developers missed court deadlines. Emergency services praised public cooperation during the incident, which also led to temporary water pressure issues due to extensive hydrant use.