David Lammy, the Minister for Culture at the Department of Culture Media & Sport, has written to Michael Fabricant to say that the decision not to add the façade of the Victoria Hospital at the Friary in Lichfield to the list of buildings of architectural or historic interest "is currently being reconsidered". This follows on from Michael Fabricant’s intervention with the Minister and a petition collected by local councillors.

Michael says: "I hope that the façade will now be listed. The Government’s policy of ‘in-filling’ with housing could result in bowling green island losing its landmark status. The preservation of the Victoria Hospital façade would allow flats to be built behind it – just like those built behind the façade of Beacon Street School in Lichfield – while keeping the character of the area.

"There have already been some rather bizarre planning decisions made in Lichfield’s conservation area which will not stand the test of time. Listing of the hospital façade will help preserve a part of the City’s character."