Major update on Heaton Group's redevelopment of Preston's derelict landmark Park Hotel
“We are restoring an icon and creating a new destination - something Preston can be proud of.”
The long-awaited restoration of a Preston landmark has been given the green light after developers secured full planning approval for the city’s former Park Hotel.
Once the most luxurious place to stay in the city, the imposing 143-year-old Victorian building overlooks Avenham Park and has been derelict for a number of years.
Following its acquisition by The Heaton Group, it is to be given a new lease of life as a 92 room spa hotel featuring a gym, café and coworking space.
It will be known as The Farington Hotel and the restored red-brick gem will be accompanied by two newly built residential buildings featuring 239 apartments, with the wider site to be known as Farington Square.
The developer says all residents will enjoy shared access to The Farington Hotel’s premium amenities, “creating a vibrant, integrated community.”
The newly built residential buildings will be constructed in red brick to complement the restored Victorian-era hotel and will be surrounded by new pathways and landscaped green spaces.
The site was acquired from the Lancashire County Pension Fund, whose assets are managed by LPPI, and follows approval of a revised scheme by Preston City Council in October 2025.
Full planning permission was formally granted on February 19, 2026.
“Something Preston can be proud of”
John Heaton, managing director of The Heaton Group, said: “This is an incredibly proud moment for us. Securing ownership and planning permission allows us to move forward with confidence.
“Our focus has always been on restoring this landmark building properly and creating something Preston can be proud of.”
‘Restoring an icon and creating a new destination’
A spokesperson for The Heaton Group added: “ At the heart of the scheme is the careful and sympathetic restoration of the original hotel building, an iconic structure with deep roots in the city’s history.
“Rather than replace it, The Heaton Group will preserve and celebrate its architectural character, working with award-winning interior designers to create a contemporary hospitality experience that honours the building’s heritage.
“The scheme has been thoughtfully designed as a refined, wellness-led destination that respects the building’s heritage while creating sustainable long-term value.”
With the acquisition completed and full planning secured, work is expected to begin on site later this year.
Preston City Council were approached for comment.