A proposal to convert an ‘unviable’ York hotel into homes has been withdrawn by developers.
They will now draw up revised plans for the former Mount Royale Hotel.
The Oakgate Group had submitted a plan to turn the empty hotel on the Mount into six homes – converting the hotel itself into two villas, with four semi-detached modern homes built in the grounds.
However, “following positive discussions between City of York Council and site owners Oakgate” they have gone back to the drawing board on the new-build homes.
A new design “will ensure the development is as sympathetic as possible to the site’s history”.
The property had been a hotel since 1967 when 119 The Mount was converted into a hotel, before it was expanded to include 117 The Mount in 1978.
The Grand Villas were originally built in 1834 and occupied as family homes until becoming a hotel.
Owners the Oxtoby family closed the hotel a year ago, saying it was no longer viable, after hundreds of new hotel rooms were built in the city.
New owners Oakgate still plans to turn the hotel building back to villas.
Managing director of Oakgate Richard France said: “The principle of bringing the Grade II listed former hotel back into residential use as two family villas has been agreed.
“The new build element – for which planning already exists for two residential properties in the grounds of the site – is being reviewed.
“This will ensure that they respect the setting of the existing Grade II buildings, whilst providing modern family accommodation, and ensuring the viability and delivery of the refurbishment of the former hotel.
“We are confident that our constructive dialogue with the council will continue.”