PLANS have been submitted for the retention of a luxury hotel which has been operating without official planning permission for several years.
West Layton Manor dates from the late 1870s and was originally built as the family home of John Easton, who had made his fortune in the coal mining industry. It is understood that a hotel operated in the building between 1984 and 2000.
In 2000, planners approved a proposal to change the use of the hotel into two residential dwellings.
There have not been any subsequent planning applications linked to the property. However, the property concerned has been run as a six-bedroomed boutique hotel since 2015.
The manor is divided into four properties, three of which are residential with the other the hotel.
The owner, Richard Sharpe, has now submitted a retrospective application to Richmondshire District Council for the retention of the business.
Airline pilot Mr Sharpe took over the hotel three years ago and spent six months revamping the property with a relaunch party held in 2019.
The agents, Planning Resolution, on behalf of Mr Sharpe and West Layton Manor Limited, said: “The application seeks the retention of this high quality, characterful and highly rated hotel business. The proposed hotel serves an important role in this local tourist accommodation market, which supports popular tourist attractions.
“The accommodation is very highly rated by guests – evident from exceptional feedback on booking websites and review websites such as Booking.com and TripAdvisor.
“It is also notable that the licensed bar has operated with full oversight from Richmondshire Council Licensing Department for the past seven years without issue or complaint.”
The agents added that the “retention of West Layton Manor bed and breakfast – a building which has been in hotel use on and off for over 30 years – would have no harmful impact on the character and appearance of the area” .
The applicant says there is a shortfall of tourist accommodation in the area and the proposal would help to safeguard local jobs.
West Layton Manor’s website describes the premises as having “six luxurious ensuite guest rooms, three reception rooms, and ample parking and outdoor space” .
It adds: “The Manor is perfect for exclusive holiday use, corporate stays, or a refined luxury weekend away.”
