Transformational plans in for historic hotel

AN HISTORIC Yorkshire hotel, famous for being the birthplace of rugby league more than 100 years ago, is set to be transformed.

Detailed plans for the George Hotel in Huddersfield have been submitted to Kirklees Council by Northpoint Living Developments, which could see the venue turned into 30 hotel rooms, 11 apartments, a luxury basement spa, dental centre and educational facility, plus a rooftop coffee shop and diner.

The hotel was bought by Northpoint director Dr Altaf Hussain, a dentist and principal of Huddersfield Dental Care Centre last year, in a deal believed to be worth more than £900,000.

The Grade II Listed building is also set to retain its public restaurant and function rooms, which will be refurbished.

The application says: “Planning the proposed refurbishment of the George, and considering the alternative options for the building, has taken a great deal of time in order to retain and preserve the historical look and features… but at the same time arriving at a scheme that could incorporate varied use and not relying on the hotel trade as a whole.

“The proposals that are planned for the George would allow the facility to be used more by the general public as well as a business and recreational hub, ensuring the financial viability of this historic listed building.”