Derelict former Hartlepool pub to be transformed into 14-bed hotel and bar

Proposals were initially submitted in 2019 for the development at The Alma Hotel, in Whitby Street, Hartlepool which has been vacant for several years, to bring the property back into use.

Submitted by a Mr Malik, plans stated the move would create regular employment for “up to 20 part-time workers” at the hotel and restaurant, along with jobs carrying out the refurbishment.

A report from Hartlepool Borough Council senior planning officer Jane Tindall confirmed the proposals for the site, which was later renamed The New Alma, have been given the go-ahead, and will benefit the area.

She said: “The host property is currently vacant and in a state of disrepair.

“The proposed works will bring a disused building back into use and will therefore have a positive impact upon the surrounding area including Church Street Conservation Area.”

All 14 bedrooms will have en-suite facilities, with 13 located on the first floor of the site and one in the attic.

The ground floor, which was previously a public house, will have internal works to create a hotel reception, restaurant and public bar.

A design and access statement, previously submitted on behalf of the applicant, added the site is desperately in need of work.

It said: “This is a fairly simple development that would not be out of place or overwhelming to the surrounding area.

“This property is desperately in need of improvements and if planning permission is granted to reinstate it back to its former residential licensed hotel status it will provide regular employment upon completion.”

Although no off-street parking is provided, public car parking is available directly across the road for up to 50 cars serving all commercial properties in the Church Street area.

Originally the plans were for a 15-bed hotel until concerns were raised over the removal of a first floor window and density of rooms.

Therefore proposals were amended to reduce the number of bedrooms to 14 and to retain the window.

The approval is subject to a legal agreement securing developer contributions of £3,500 towards green infrastructure links in the area.