Hotel plans for Preston's former post office given stamp of approval

An application to convert the building into a 60-bedroom hotel with a restaurant, bar and spa was considered by Preston Council’s planning committee.

Councillors unanimously gave the green light to the proposals, which include the addition of a two-storey flat-roofed extension on the Birley Street side, to accommodate extra bedrooms and a wedding and function suite.

The Twentieth Century Society objected to the proposed extension, saying it would have a “harmful impact” on the exterior of the Grade II listed building, and that it would be “overly-dominant in views along the two side streets”.

But officers recommended the plans for approval, and committee chairman Coun Brian Rollo said: “This will bring an important building back into use.

“The Twentieth Century Society objection I dismiss, it’s only going to be visible to council staff in the back of the building.

“It’s a really good use and therefore I’m going to support it.”