Banbury historic hotel to expand to meet demand

A proposal to increase the capacity of the Wroxton House Hotel in Banbury
by a quarter has been approved by councillors.

Cherwell District Council’s planning committee has granted planning permission and listed building consent for a two-storey extension to the property, which will provide a further eight bedrooms.

The extension to the privately-owned and family-run hotel, on the edge of the Cotswolds, will comprise a new, two-storey building, connected to the existing structures by a glazed link.

The original hotel buildings are grade II-listed structures, and the development will proceed subject to conditions regarding the approval of construction methods and materials.

Cllr Colin Clarke, Cherwell’s lead member for planning, said, ‘The Wroxton House Hotel is a popular establishment which has been turning away guests because of lack of space. Members agreed a decision which will allow the business to grow and keep up with demand.

‘Because the hotel’s original buildings are listed structures, sitting within the Wroxton Conservation Area, we have to be mindful of the impact of extensions and associated works on the character of the village.

‘Overall, the proposals are being developed in a way that shows sensitivity to the hotel’s original buildings and wider setting. Planning policy states that we should support economic growth in rural areas, and committee agreed that these benefits mean it is important that the proposed work goes ahead.’