Approval nears for Preston Guild Centre hotel
Plans to convert a 15-storey office next to Preston Bus Station into a 105-bedroom aparthotel, with casino, spa and gym are set to be approved by city councillors next week.
The scheme, designed by Frank Whittle Partnership on behalf of Guild Centre owner The Rigby Organisation, would see the 1970s Guild Hall and Guild Tower, rebranded Villa Urban.
The £10m project would convert the top four floors of the tower into hotel suites of more than 1,000 sq ft with viewing balconies overlooking the city, alongside duplex spaces, and entertainment and cinema rooms.
The proposals include a 10,000 sq ft casino on the first floor and a 5,000 sq ft spa and leisure area, as well as dedicated parking and drop off areas.
There will be a new entrance into the adjoining Guild Hall building, replacing the present bus station underpass.
Preston City Council’s planning committee is due to meet on Thursday 8 December, with officers recommending the project be approved.
In September, planning permission was granted to Rigby’s multi-million pound transformation of the Guild Hall, transforming the basement and ground floor of the venue into a 10-pin bowling alley, nine-hole crazy golf course, karaoke booths, a sports bar and dining room.
The latest Guild Hall attraction will be called LeVel and FWP is carrying out the full design work, including creating the venue’s logo and branding.
