Run-down lodge to become hotel's bridal suites

A dilapidated building at a popular wedding venue is to be turned into bridal suites after plans were approved.

The two-storey lodge at Wentbridge House Hotel near Pontefract is currently used as a storage area for kitchen and restaurant facilities.

But the new plans will see it renovated to create two bridal suites, outdoor patio seating areas and sheltered hot tubs.

The property is on greenbelt land and lies within the Wentbridge Conservation Area.

A heritage statement submitted on behalf of applicant James Page said the works would be in keeping "with the characteristics of the existing house, out-buildings and properties".

According to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, the statement added that the village of Wentbridge had "strong connection with the history of Robin Hood".

"It is home to a collection of listed buildings within the conservation area which include churches, cottages and the Old Parish Rooms," it said.

"There are many different styles and materials within this village that create a unique character throughout the area."

The proposal also includes building a bridal dressing and make-up suite on the ground floor as well as creating a feature garden and landscaping outside the building.

Wentbridge House is thought to date back to 1700 and became the home of the Leatham family in 1883.

Edmund Leatham was a partner in Yorkshire banking firm Leatham Tew and Co, which became part of Barclays Bank.

The building was used as an Army headquarters during World War Two and was converted into a hotel in 1960.

Recommending the scheme for approval, a council officer said: “The re-use of the building is considered beneficial and will improve the overall character and appearance of the Wentbridge Hotel site.”

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