A historic building near Scarborough could become a nine-bed hotel with parking as part of a developer’s plan to renovate the property.
Yew Court in Scalby is set to be transformed into a high-quality hotel as part of a “sensitive conversion” proposed by Mr N. Thomas of Five Star Collection Ltd.
The proposed hotel, parts of which are believed to date to the late 18th century, is formed of a substantial detached property set in “generous grounds” at High Street, Scalby.
The applicant, who also owns and operates the Plough Hotel and public house located on the same street, is in a “unique position to manage Yew Court’s future and ensure its integration within the wider hospitality offer of the area”, plans state.
“A key aim of the project is to address and carefully reverse several awkward alterations introduced through the building’s current configuration as three semiconnected townhouses.
“In doing so, the proposals will restore a sense of architectural coherence and highlight the building’s significant qualities,” according to the proposal.
Glazed doors would be introduced to improve circulation and visual connectivity throughout the building, while general repairs and upgrades would improve the building’s overall condition and “ensure its long-term conservation”.
Yew Court history
Yew Court’s history dates back to 1742 when it was built for Captain William L’Ans of Hull, son of a very wealthy land and ship owner, who married Thomasin Rickinson (1703-83) in Scalby on 5 April 1734.
An extension was added in the 1890s while the house was occupied by William Tingle Brown who, along with his wife Clara, built the nearby Yew Tree Cottages and shop (now Yew Tree Cafe).
A stable block was added and at some point Yew Court was divided into flats.
The proposal includes the provision of seven guest car parking spaces, including one accessible bay, with new surfacing throughout the parking area.
A design proposal submitted to the council states: “The principal residence, Yew Court, occupies the central portion of the building and includes a grand dining hall, large drawing room with triple aspect views over the gardens, kitchen, study, two generous bedrooms, and associated bathrooms.
“Yew Corner forms the upper portion of the house and provides a three-bedroom dwelling with attic rooms above, while Yew Cottage adjoins to the side, offering a smaller two-bedroom residence with its own garden and parking.
“The grounds feature mature trees, expansive lawns, stone boundary walls, and the distinctive Grade II listed gate piers at the main entrance, reinforcing the property’s architectural character and historic value.”
The applicant said that his “experience underpins a clear commitment to delivering a scheme of the highest quality – one that respects the special character of the building while enhancing its functionality”.
North Yorkshire Council has not set a date for deciding on the proposal which is open to representations.
