Richmond's empty historic building could become luxury spa

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 16:43 · Archive

A Grade II-listed Georgian building in Richmond, empty for 20 years, could be turned into a luxury spa through a £3m redevelopment.

A Grade II-listed Georgian building in Richmond that has stood empty for around 20 years could be transformed into a luxury spa as part of a £3m redevelopment. Developer Benira Ltd, owned by local businessman Ben Wilkinson, is seeking planning permission to restore Friary Lodge on Victoria Road and add modern extensions with spa facilities including pools, treatment rooms and changing areas. The scheme would create employment and provide a new attraction for residents and visitors.

Friary Lodge, which stands alongside Richmond Cricket Ground and Friary Gardens, has deteriorated significantly during its two decades of vacancy. Supporting documents submitted with the planning application describe parts of the building as unsafe, with water damage, rotten floor timbers, collapsed ceilings and evidence of vandalism and fires. A structural assessment concluded that significant repairs were needed as soon as practicable to prevent further deterioration.

The developer argues that transforming the building into a commercially viable spa would provide the investment needed to restore it and maintain it in the future.

How it is being reported

• Historic building empty for 20 years could become luxury spa in £3m transformationRichmond’s Grade II-listed Friary Lodge could become a £3m luxury spa, with planning permission sought to restore the historic building and create jobs.Darlington & Stockton Times · 11 Oct, 16:00
• Historic building empty for 20 years could become luxury spa in £3m transformationRichmond’s Grade II-listed Friary Lodge could become a £3m luxury spa, with planning permission sought to restore the historic building and create jobs.The Northern Echo · 11 Oct, 16:00

In this story: Friary Lodge · Richmond · Ben Wilkinson · Benira Ltd · Victoria Road · Richmond Cricket Ground

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