Newmarket hotel granted planning permission

Review Hotels has received planning permission for renovation of the Rutland Arms Hotel in Newmarket. 

The family-run business, who own the nearby Bedford Lodge Hotel and Spa, acquired the 46-bedroom site in March of last year. They have since been polishing plans to “restore, renovate and refurbish” the historical building. 

Plans for refurbishment include a renovation of the main building, which will include the addition of a “state-of-the-art” kitchen and restaurant. The adjacent annexe will also be refurbished, with plans to include luxury bedrooms, as well as meeting and conference rooms for guests. 

A redesigned interior, featuring decorative ceilings, fireplaces and stained-glass windows, will aim to “enhance the existing characteristics of the hotel”. 

Noel Byrne, chief executive at the Rutland Arms Hotel and Bedford Lodge Hotel and Spa, said: “We are ecstatic to have received planning permission to proceed with the redevelopment of Rutland Arms Hotel.

“Standing prominently at the top of Newmarket high street, the Hotel is one of the most iconic buildings in the town and we are very excited to proceed with its transformation. Our plans will harness the rich history of the property, restoring it to its former glory.”

Review Hotels, owned by the Kean family, was established in 1981, and has remained a family-run business since. 

Mike Kean, director of the business, added: “Rutland Arms Hotel is an incredibly exciting project and we are thrilled to have reached this major milestone with planning permission. 

“All plans have been designed to ensure that the hotel is brought back to life, whilst being sympathetic to its original heritage. This is a significant investment for us, and we are committed to creating a hotel that will be a place for both local community and visitors to enjoy for the long-term.”

Review Hotels will now begin the design stage of redevelopment. The Rutland Arms is expected to complete refurbishment by the end of 2021.