Grade II-listed hall set for spa refurbishment creating 150 jobs
THE new owners of Grantley Hall, led by Valeria Sykes, have put forward plans to convert the grade II-listed property into a hotel and spa, which will offer 150 jobs to the local area.
Mrs Sykes, ex-wife of UKIP donor and founder of energy provider Energis Paul Sykes, bought the property, near Ripon, in August 2015.
She is known locally for her involvement in conservation and restoration projects such as Studley Royal House and the Duck House Conservation Estate.
The plans to transform the North Yorkshire hall were submitted by her investment vehicle, Grantley Hall Ltd.
The company is accommodating 51 suites, with a spa and wellness centre, whilst the outbuildings of the 32,000 sq ft site will be transformed into on-site staff accommodation.
Construction and development of the property will create an estimated 200 jobs, with 150 permanent positions once the hotel and spa is open.
Grantley Hall was first built in the 18th century by the Norton family.
It had been in the hands of West Riding County Council for a number of years, before which it was used as a convalescent home during the Second World War.
It was put on the market in 2013. Agents at the time said they were looking at offers between £5m and £6m.
Mrs Sykes, who has separated from her multimillionaire husband, said: “Since my divorce from Paul Sykes in 2012, I have embarked on a number of very exciting restoration projects.
“With Grantley Hall we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to create something in the north of England befitting of an international stage and I look forward to creating a venue that Yorkshire can be proud of.”
