A Grade II-listed building in Ely will undergo a transformation into hotel accommodation after East Cambridgeshire District Council granted planning permission. The property, located at 24 St Mary’s Street, will become an extension of the nearby Poets House Hotel, expanding its capacity to cater to visitors.
The approval marks a shift in direction for the building, which previously saw plans for a JD Wetherspoon pub rejected in March 2021. Council members raised concerns at the time that a pub would be too close to residential areas. The new plans, submitted by Interesting Hotels Group – the parent company of Poets House – aim to “expand and enhance” existing accommodation offerings.
According to the submitted designs, the renovation will focus on a “full renovation” of the existing structure, addressing essential repairs to the roof, windows, and doors. Developers claim that the conversion will involve “minimal alterations” to the building’s original layout, preserving its historical character.
A design and access statement highlighted the property’s potential as a “natural extension” to the style and number of rooms already available at Poets House. Planners envision improved parking, pedestrian access, and landscaped features that will enhance the building’s contribution to the city.
Council planning officers endorsed the project, noting that the building’s existing arrangement lends itself well to a hotel conversion. The report stated that the development will secure the optimal use of a heritage asset while maintaining its significance within the Ely Conservation Area. Officials believe the project will offer a positive economic impact for the area and complement existing tourism infrastructure.
“The proposed development seeks to introduce an appropriate, sympathetic and sustainable form of development…,” stated the planning report “…resulting in an overall positive impact upon the asset’s setting and significance.”
The approval comes as Ely continues to develop as a destination for tourism, and highlights the council’s commitment to balancing preservation of heritage with economic growth. The project is expected to boost local businesses and attract a wider range of visitors to the historic city.
