Café in Whitby Town Centre Transformed into Seven-Bed Hotel
A café in Whitby Town Centre is set to undergo a significant transformation into a seven-bedroom hotel. The Hopes and Beans café, located at 2 St Ann’s Staith, will retain its ground floor operations while the upper two floors will be converted into hotel accommodations.
Details of the Transformation
The project, spearheaded by Richard Exley, received approval from North Yorkshire Council. The ground floor will continue to function as a café, bar, and hotel reception. The first and second floors will be repurposed to include:
- Three guest rooms on the first floor
- Four additional rooms on the second floor
All rooms are designed for double occupancy and will include amenities such as sofas, tables, and chairs.
External Modifications
Alongside the internal changes, several external modifications are planned. These include:
- Installation of new windows
- Removal of the existing fire escape and corresponding door on the southern side of the building
Some proposed modifications were adjusted to address concerns raised by council officials. Notably, no public objections were made against the proposal, and the local Environment Agency also had no issues.
Support from Local Authorities
The council’s tourism department expressed its support for this initiative. They highlighted the importance of expanding serviced accommodation options in Whitby, emphasizing that tourism is vital for the local economy. They welcomed the application as a positive contribution to the area’s tourism character.
In 2023, there was an earlier approval to convert the upper floors into holiday accommodations, though this had only been partially implemented. Currently, the building operates as a café, with additional seating available on the first floor.
In conclusion, North Yorkshire Council has deemed the renovation plans as acceptable, granting the necessary planning permission. This development is anticipated to enhance the hospitality offerings in Whitby Town Centre.
