Planning application for the Cathedral Hotel submitted

A planning application has been submitted by Ken Parke Planning Consultants on behalf of Brian Currie of Larasian Limited to renovate the Cathedral Hotel on 7-9 Milford Street.

The Grade II listed building has been empty since it closed in July 2022 and Larasian plans to turn the existing 22 bedroom site into 13 luxury suites with an al fresco restaurant and Spitfire rooftop bar.

Plans show that the bedrooms and general interior will be designed taking inspiration from hotels such as The Pig and  The Chewton Glen, 'incorporating local culture, history and craftsmanship'.

READ MORE: 'Something new and dynamic' - plans revealed for boutique hotel and rooftop bar

The courtyard, formerly a smoking area, would become a 'tranquil and attractive place to enjoy al fresco dining' the application states, with a backdrop of Corten steel artwork commissioned by local craftsmen and planters with tables and chairs.

At the entrance to the rooftop bar from the top of the existing staircase, a spitfire model will be installed to tribute to those who worked in Salisbury's factories with Spitfire components during World War Two.

A replica of the Spitfire model that would be installed in the rooftop bar (Image: Spencer Mulholland Photography) Brian Currie's parents met making spitfire components, as part of the “secret Spitfire” operation where 2,500 Spitfires were built in secrecy in Salisbury, and he is keen to embrace this in the developments.

The bar itself will be surrounded by glass walls and a roof with an outdoor terrace space around the perimeter.

READ MORE: Photos: see inside the vacant Cathedral Hotel

It will have views of five spires: Salisbury Arts Centre, St Martin's Church, Salisbury Cathedral, St Thomas' Church and Salisbury United Reformed Church, as well as Old Sarum.

(Image: Spencer Mulholland Photography) Parts of the building were altered in 1929, so many original heritage features were removed at that time, such as large parts of the rear façade. However, the heritage statement in the application explains that the mid-18th century staircase is currently 'substantially intact' and will become the 'centrepiece' of the ground floor to 'preserve its integrity'. 

28 new jobs will be created as a result of the developments and 11 on site parking spaces will be installed (where there are currently none).

Proposals for the site were shared to the public at the Guildhall in August to gain feedback before the application which has now been submitted to gain planning permission for the development.

A decision must be made by Wiltshire Council by January 1, 2025. For the full planning application and designs, click here.