Belfry to create new spa and waterpark 100 new rooms also set for major golf resort expansion
THE Belfry Hotel and Resort is planning a major expansion which will create around 100 new jobs but see the end of the Bel Air nightclub.
The venue, near Sutton Coldfield – famous for hosting major golf tournaments including the Ryder Cup – said the proposals included a new luxury spa and water park designed by WTI, which is behind several water parks including one at a hotel in Alton Towers.
The plans also include a new 500-seat conference centre, which will be able to hold up to 700 guests for banqueting and ballroom functions, and an additional 112 hotel bedrooms.
Ian Kettlewell, planning director at development consultancy Lichfields, said: “These propos- als encompass a substantial investment and overhaul of the resort. The aim is to develop and improve on The Belfry’s current offering, making the hotel and resort more attractive to families.”
The plans involve converting the existing Bel Air nightclub – scene of a New Year’s Eve stabbing two years ago – into the spa, operated by luxury brand Espa.
The hotel currently has 320 bedrooms and 40 of the 112 new rooms will be directly connected to the new spa.
Mr Kettlewell said the development would create 100 new jobs, adding to the 674-strong staff currently working there.
Other existing facilities include restaurants, a spa, fitness club and meeting space.
A planning application is due to be submitted to North Warwickshire Borough Council in the summer and construction could start early next year.
A public consultation event on the plans will be held on Wednesday, May 10 at Middleton Recreation Rooms, in Church Lane, Middleton, from 4pm to 7pm.
Last year, The Belfry won the company of the year title at the Birmingham Post Business Awards.