A consultation has opened for plans for a 49-bed boutique hotel in Finchampstead.
Sindlesham-based Nirvana Spa has submitted plans to Wokingham Borough Council for a change of use for West Court in Park Lane, Finchampstead.
Documents submitted as part of the plans said: “The site presents a unique offer to cater for this (luxury hotel) market, given the historic nature of the building, the nature of site (i.e. its tranquil location surrounded by SANG) and the size of the site (which includes existing provision of on-site sports facilities, including tennis and squash courts, as well as parkland, pond and landscaped grounds).
“The site therefore provides both the setting and facilities necessary for this luxury offer.
“The proposals would partly meet some of the under-supply in this type of luxury hotel accommodation within the borough.”
The plans are solely for a change of the internal use of the 36,000 sq ft property, now owned by Nirvana Spa, which previously provided an ‘officers’ mess’ for nearby Arborfield Garrison.
It is not seeking to make any external changes or extensions to the building.
The plans will also retain the existing layout of the building, site access and the existing car park which provides 132 guests and visitor spaces, and 24 spaces for staff.
Documents said: “The existing lawful use of the site as an ‘officers’ mess’ has parallels with a hotel use in terms of the form and function of the building, which already benefits from self contained rooms, a bar area, dining hall etc.
“The army vacated the site in 2015, and the building needs to find an alternative use to avoid falling into a derelict condition.”
It is suggested the hotel would employ approximately 120 staff covering food and beverage, housekeeping, and maintenance roles.
Grade II-listed West Court is a former manor house with a 17th century core, and with substantial additions and rebuilding in 1800, 1835, 1901 and 1964.
Situated on the Roman road known as Devil’s Highway which linked Silchester to Staines, the site of West Court has been occupied since the Middle Ages.
The earliest part of the present house dates from the 17th century, and was built for Charles Howard, the Earl of Arundel’s youngest son.
In 1941, the building was requisitioned by the War Department for use as a training establishment by the Special Operations Executive.
It was then purchased by the War Department in 1950, and in 1964 was greatly extended, adding a dining room, bedroom wing and service rooms.
The building was most recently used as the officers’ mess for the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME).
It is believed to have been sold for £2.2 million in May 2021.
A spokesperson for Nirvana Spa told Wokingham Today: “West Court Retreat is set to join the prestigious Nirvana Collection, operating alongside Nirvana Spa to offer overnight accommodation to both members and guests.
“Nirvana is embarking on a significant investment to restore this Grade-II listed building to its former glory, with a finish that mirrors the distinguished Nirvana brand.
“We eagerly anticipate a soft opening over the next nine months, subject to being granted approval.”
Finchampstead Parish Council has confirmed it has no objections to the plans.
The public consultation is open until May 23.
You can search 240428 on Wokingham Borough Council’s planning portal for more information.
