What is going to happen to the former Balmoral Hotel in Wigan?

In its heyday, it was one of the best known pubs in Hindley but the Balmoral Hotel's future is very different - despite this week's break-in.
The Balmoral Hotel, which was hit by a vandalism spree on Monday, could be converted into a hotelThe Balmoral Hotel, which was hit by a vandalism spree on Monday, could be converted into a hotel
The Balmoral Hotel, which was hit by a vandalism spree on Monday, could be converted into a hotel

Significant damage was caused to the former pub on Atherton Road when vandals broke in on Monday night.

However, it is currently unclear whether the wrecking spree will delay plans to convert the site into a hotel.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Blueprints were unveiled for the new 39-bed hotel, pub and restaurant close to The Saddle roundabout in Wigan.

Brewing giants Marston are behind the bid.

Planning agent Steve Buckley has previously told the borough’s development control section that Marston wanted to bring a food-led operation to the location.

He added: “Food-led pubs are aimed at business people, the more mature diner, and families, as indicated by the outdoor play area proposed as part of this application.

“The layout plans show that the floor area is laid out to provide a pleasant eating environment.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The hotel, or lodge, development would include 19 rooms on the ground floor, with a check-in area, and 20 on the first floor.

Mr Buckley added: “The lodge hotel concept focuses on providing accommodation and allowing guests to utilise the dining facilities at the adjacent pub and restaurant.

“The hotels are predominantly aimed at short-stays for people visiting the local area rather than the events at the venue itself.

“It is considered that the core market will be for people travelling for business and leisure or tourism purposes.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The proposal includes 78 car parking spaces for customers and staff and bike racks.

Before now, the last opportunity to redevelop the Frith Street site came when plans were put forward to build a fast food restaurant, shop, office block and MOT servicing centre, in 2009.

This won planning approval in August 2011 but has never got off the ground.

Related topics: