Ilfracombe Town Council has recently backed plans to transform the long-derelict Lee Bay Hotel, located on the North Devon coast between Ilfracombe and Woolacombe.
The site, which has been vacant for over 15 years, has been described by locals and visitors as an eyesore. However, with the support of the council, the hotel is now set for a bright future.
Duncan Powell from Acorn Blue, the developer behind the proposal, presented the project to the Ilfracombe Town Council during their meeting on April 12.
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The new plans include the construction of 21 two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments and houses on the site, as well as a café. These plans will shortly be submitted to North Devon Council for approval.
Powell explained that the former hotel building will be preserved as much as possible, retaining its historical elements. The new development aims to address drainage, road, and structural issues previously discussed, and the façade will be replaced to maintain the original appearance of the hotel. An extension on the right-hand side of the land will also be added, bringing back an arts and crafts style to the building.
The developer plans to demolish an unpopular 1960s development and is currently in talks with the National Trust regarding the land south of the river.
The area north of the river will be designated as private grounds for the occupants, while the area south of the river will be allocated for the café and car park.
The project has received positive feedback from the community, with Councillor Pat Coates stating that many people she spoke with were “really happy with the new plans.” The preservation of the hotel building, the red roofs, and the arts and crafts style chimneys, along with the removal of “horrible add-ons” from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, contribute to the improved visual appearance of the site.
With the support of the Ilfracombe Town Council, the revitalization of Lee Bay Hotel is a step closer to becoming a reality.
This promising transformation will not only enhance the local area but also offer new housing and leisure opportunities for both residents and visitors too.
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