Plans to re-open derelict quayside building
BOUTIQUE bedrooms, secret gardens and an Italian-inspired bistro – these are the plans for one of Newcastle Quayside’s historic buildings.
Newcastle City Council officers have given planning permission for 46 Sandhill to be transformed into No. 46 Boutique Hotel & Bistro, complete with 10 boutique bedrooms, a bar, three secret gardens, a pavement cafe and meeting room.
The former merchants house was built in the 1700s but has been empty for two years after the closure of quirky interior design store Whosit & Whatsit.
Now planners have given permission for alterations to the Grade IIlisted building.
Documents submitted by interior designer Simon Bartlett, on behalf of the Gateshead applicant Elaine Muir, show how the hotel would be decorated.
The plan is to create a bar area on the lower ground floor, a bistro and kitchen on the ground floor and 10 bedrooms on the first, second and third floors.
The plans say: “Hotel rooms are chic, utilising the original fabric of the building, with king-size beds and en-suites.
“This is the ideal location to take a break before or after discovering what Newcastle has to offer.
“Our main focus is that we intend to repair and make good this building, which has stood vacant for many years. Our works to the building are minimal, with emphasis on restoration where possible.
“We believe this concept meets with current policies: economic, social and environmental. With that in mind, we have added in good design, and conservation of a derelict building that will be a valuable asset to the Quayside.”
The plans also include a concept menu for a “small plate bistro, serving Italian dishes designed to be shared” and cocktails.
Granting permission for the changes, planning officers said: “The proposed use would contribute to the vitality of the city, enabling re-use of the property and adding into the mix of uses in the city centre. The proposal would not have a negative impact upon the vitality and viability of the city.
“The potential harm could include adding additional railings and stairs to the rear terrace.
“Due to the topography of the site, there is likely to be a minimal impact on the setting of the Moot Hall which is situated above the application site, however there is the potential for impacts to the adjacent Bessie Surtees House and the application building itself.
“There would be public benefits from the scheme including providing employment and bringing an empty building and vacant garden back into use. The public benefits would outweigh the potential harm.”