Mini-hotel planned for Hartlepool's JD Sports Domes complex at Seaton Carew

Proposals have been submitted to Hartlepool Borough Council planning department to convert the Mayfair bungalow at the site in Tees Road into a bed and breakfast for up to five guests.

The application from Joseph Nelson, from Nelson’s Bureau, states the proposals come after carrying out a ‘successful’ trial run for the development.

The £7million Sports Domes development opened in 2013, believed to be the first of its kind in the UK.

The domes were shipped from America and aim to cater for people of all fitness levels as well as family groups.

A design and access statement from CPM Design and Build Ltd on behalf of the applicant states they want The Mayfair Lodge & Family Suite to provide a bed and breakfast offer for those looking to stay overnight in the area.

It said: “The hospitality manager has purchased the bungalow and obtained a lease hold on part of the surrounding car park area.

“Following a successful trial run, it is his aim to convert this bungalow into a bed and breakfast, offering visitors to events at the domes the option to stay instead of late night travelling, and is also open to the public looking for a convenient place to stay while visiting the area.

“Originally being part of the JD Sports Domes site and enjoying a synergetic relationship between the businesses, the proposed bed and breakfast benefits from the security of the site, with floodlighting and permanent members of staff on hand.”

The floor plan for the development consists of four en-suite guest bedrooms, one en-suite staff bedroom and a self contained “cottage” style room.

The bed and breakfast would also offer a generous sized kitchen, dining room and a shower block, along with three private hot tub areas.

Documents state the look of the site will be unchanged by the proposal and there are no plans to develop the building further, noting only a change of use is required.

Plans also state surrounding the proposed bed and breakfast is a tarmac car park with disabled bays and ramps for inclusive access.

The centre is closed due to the national covid lockdown, but, when open, it provides sport and exercise facilities for people of all ages and abilities.

The domes can be adapted to suit a variety sports and leisure pursuits, including indoor golf, featuring four golf simulators and interactive courses, and football, with five-a-side and seven-a-side 3G pitches available.

The complex also houses a licensed restaurant, and is used for a variety of events, including boxing matches and family activity days.

A decision is expected to be made on the bed and breakfast hotel proposals by the council planning department in March 2020.

Planners will consult with key agencies and members of the public before pulling together a full report to be used in the decision-making process.

To view and comment on the planning application visit the Hartlepool Borough Council planning portal online and search reference number H/2020/0444.

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