A planning application has been submitted for the conversion of an empty office building at  37 – 41 Lower Bridge Street ( Park House) into a boutique hotel. The plan includes remodelling the interior of the Grade II listed building to create the hotel, with commercial spaces at the lower ground level.

A heritage impact assessment states the building was built around 1717 as a townhouse. Over the years the building has homed the Albion hotel and the Talbot Hotel, the Chester Home for Working Boys, as well as a library. In 1820 the Duke of Wellington stayed at the building when it was the Albion Hotel. Over the years the building has lost many of its internal features but does retain some points of interest including some doors and the principal staircase.

The assessment carried out on behalf of Base Architects state that “Enhancement and reuse of this important listed building is of significant public benefit. ” encouraging footfall to the street and neighbouring businesses. The site plan includes space for a jacuzzi and sensory room as well as a boutique/shop. The proposed hotel will have 19 rooms including a mix of two bedroom suites, double rooms and deluxe king rooms.

The planning application can be viewed here :

https://pa.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=SQUXVQTEMIT00&activeTab=summary