Former Scarborough hotel and restaurant could be turned into flats

A former hotel and Tex-Mex restaurant in Scarborough could be turned into flats, under plans submitted to the borough council.

Author: Local Democracy Reporter, Carl GavaghanPublished 11th Jan 2021

A former hotel and Tex-Mex restaurant in Scarborough could be turned into flats, under plans submitted to the borough council.

Wright Investments has applied to Scarborough Council transform the Grade II listed Villa Esplanade in the town’s South Cliff into 26 self-contained apartments.

Also included in the plans are ground floor restaurant El Gringos and Ink bar and lounge in the basement, both of which would also become turned into flats.

The prominent building would be saved from falling into disrepair if the plans are approved, planning documents state.

El Gringo's Scarborough artists impression of flats

The submission adds:

“The council is asked to take into account the fact this hotel has not operated successfully for tourist and holiday use for a period well in excess of 10 years.

“Our client is looking to develop this site as residential as it is based on sound business reasoning as historically the business has failed for holiday use.

“The previous owner has provided evidence of use of the building as self–contained residential units during their ownership.

“The hotel that operated on the site for many years ceased to operate due to viability issues and has been vacant for a significant length of time.”

Villa Esplanade is a Grade II listed building of special architectural or historic interest and it also falls within the Scarborough Conservation Area which means listed building consent is also needed.

The planning documents add:

“The renovation and reinvention of this building will be a positive impact on the character and environment; the concern is that the continued disuse of the building will result in further deterioration and disrepair to a point where no financial package will be viable to bring the building to an acceptable standard.

“This area of Scarborough is benefitting from the regeneration of key historic gardens; the wider area and the preservation of significant buildings is key in maintaining character and environment of South Cliff.”

The plans are now out to consultation.

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