Plans for 150-acre 17th century estate near Lancaster to become spa and hotel
Plans to build 20 holiday lodges, a spa and an orangery at a Grade II listed mansion-turned-wedding venue have been set in motion.
The planning application was lodged to Wyre Borough Council by Wyreside Hall in Dolphinholme in mid-August.
Wyreside Hall is seeking permission to carry out a wide range of major works to the 17th-century stately home, including:
- Restorative work to the hall itself
- The demolition of a partially built extension
- The construction of an orangery for dedicated events and the construction of a spa and wellness centre on the estate.
The application also seeks to build 20 luxury holiday lodges, pods and shepherds huts along with the necessary roads, car parks and gardens required.
According to the planning document, the application seeks to regenerate Wyreside Hall and thus protect the estate for years to come.
The document reads: “The application should not be viewed simply as a proposal for new development within the open countryside.
“Rather, it represents the comprehensive regeneration of a deteriorating historic estate whose future depends upon securing a commercially sustainable use capable of funding its ongoing repair, maintenance and management.
“This application is supported by an extensive evidence base comprising specialist assessments of heritage, structural condition, ecology, transport, arboriculture and design.
“When considered as a whole, the proposals represent sustainable development and deliver substantial planning, economic, environmental and heritage benefits. These benefits are considered to significantly outweigh any limited adverse impacts arising from the development.”
Wyreside Hall was first built in the 17th century but was remodelled in 1790 by the then owner John Fenton Crawthorne MP.
The manor house was first converted into a hotel and wedding venue in 2012 before being sold in late 2024 for an undisclosed fee.
Wyreside’s estate spans some 150 acres and already features the 11-bed manor house, five holiday cottages and a two-bedroom gatehouse.
The venue is nestled at the feet of the Bowland Fells, with the estate enjoying views of the River Wyre, Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.
The application will now move onto the next stage of the planning process, with a decision expected by Monday October 19.