Five-Star Hotel and Spa Transformation Planned for Historic Kirklevington Estate in Stockton-on-Tees
Plans to transform the former Country House Hotel site in Kirklevington, Stockton-on-Tees into a prestigious five-star hotel and spa have been submitted.
The application marks significant progress for the site which has remained empty since the former Judges Country House Hotel, also known as Kirklevington Hall, closed its doors in March 2023. The proposals for the 140-year-old estate include the refurbishment of the hotel with a new restaurant extension, spa, events pavilion and woodland and walled garden lodges which have been designed to preserve and celebrate the sites rich architectural history.
Lead Developer and Teesside entrepreneur Chris Musgrave along with hotel operator Kymel have worked closely with local architecture practice GSSArchitecture, and Planning Consultant, Lichfields,to develop proposals for the restoration and extension of this 140-year-old estate. These include the sympathetic refurbishment of the hotel to provide 18 uniquely designed suites, and a new restaurant extension that will introduce a contrasting contemporary architectural style, clearly distinguishing the new elements from the original building.
Outlined within the planning application, the proposals detail a number of new additions to the site,one of which is aluxury spa building located to the east of the main hotel which will house a relaxation area, treatment rooms, a swimming pool, steam rooms, saunas, exercise studio and a restaurant. The introduction of eight walled garden lodges and twenty woodland lodges round-off the plans and are proposed to sit in the western woodland area of the site providing a unique experience and discreet privacy for guests.
Daniel Jones, Associate and Project Architect at GSSArchitecture, said, “We are delighted to be part of this prestigious project, working to sensitively restore and enhance this historic estate. Our design approach ensures that the new additions complement the character of the original country house hotel while delivering a modern, high-end experience for guests. This project is a fantastic opportunity to create a landmark five-star destination for the region which focuses on wellness and connection with nature.”
Paul Makings, Chairman at Kymel, expressed, “We are excited to be chosen to head up the design, build and operation of this exciting project, Chris Musgrave had the vision to bring the site back to life after purchasing it three years ago for over £3m, although it is in a poor state of repair now, his exciting plans will see many millions more invested into the redevelopment of this site”.
GSSArchitecture has built up an impressive portfolio of projects within the hospitality sector on a national level and are currently delivering hotel projects in County Durham, Wales and Northumberland.
