The Society has always maintained that the listed status of this landmark building must be respected and strongly opposed any move to change its outward appearance.

Planning permission was granted for conversion from 42-bed hotel to 17-bed hotel plus shops, restaurants & offices but, despite occasional rumours of an impending sale, this never materialised. In 2008 the Society urged the Council to acquire the site through compulsory purchase and in our view this still remains an option.

Part of the site in East Street was converted into a Cote restaurant and subsequently ASK moved in to the main part of the building. The final section of the East Street façade has now been filled by a Nando’s restaurant. Thankfully, this important landmark is finally back in use.