Hotel conversion and alterations at Derbyshire County Council County Hall, Matlock

What was proposed

The application sought listed building consent for converting council offices to a hotel, refurbishing Winter Gardens and demolishing several structures.

“The application seeks listed building consent in relation to proposals for a change of use from Council offices to hotel (Class C1) and associated works. Other works included in this application comprise refurbishment and renovation of Winter Gardens, demolition of the west link bridge, demolition and removal of verandah structures, demolition of the Business Centre, former stable block, gym/canteen building standby generator building, landscape store.”

Officer report

The site

County Hall is a prominent Grade II listed building in Matlock Bank Conservation Area, with connected blocks, mature trees, parking and steeply sloping grounds.

“County Hall is a prominent Grade II listed building, situated on the junction with Smedley Street and Bank Road and forms the heart of the Matlock Bank Conservation Area. Prior to its acquisition by Derbyshire County Council in 1955, the building now known as County Hall was purpose built for, and in use as, Smedley’s Hydropathic Establishment.”

“County Hall comprises a complex of buildings, the principal building (south block) which is connected to the North Block by two link bridges across Smedley Street. Within the main grounds are other buildings including the notable Winter Gardens plus other modern additions such as the Business Centre, Stable Block and gym block. In its original use as Smedley’s hydro the site had substantial landscaped leisure grounds.”

Officer report

The officers’ recommendation

The officers recommended granting listed building consent subject to conditions, with delegated authority to amend those conditions if necessary.

“RECOMMENDATION To grant listed building consent subject to conditions with delegated authority to the Director of Place and Economy to approve any amendments to those conditions as deemed necessary.”

Officer report

Who spoke

Two agents spoke in support of the application during public participation.

Members’ questions

Members asked whether the proposed hotel accommodation could have double glazing and insulation to modern standards.

“During questions Members sought clarification on the following:”

“Whether the proposed hotel accommodation could be fitted with double glazing and insulation to modern standards.”

Minutes

The committee’s decision

The committee unanimously granted listed building consent subject to conditions, with delegated authority to amend those conditions if necessary.

“It was moved by Councillor Dobbs, seconded by Councillor Lees and…”

“To grant listed building consent subject to conditions with delegated authority to the Director of Place and Economy to approve any amendments to those conditions as deemed necessary.”

Minutes