Luxury Holiday Lets Proposed for Empress Building, Mexborough

Mexborough, Doncaster, June 19, 2024

A pre-application has been submitted to Doncaster Council, proposing the conversion of the top floor of the iconic Empress Building into 12 luxury holiday lets. This ambitious project is set to become a valuable asset to Mexborough and its local businesses, addressing the increasing demand for high-quality accommodation in the area.

The proposed holiday lets aim to meet the needs of visitors attending a variety of events at the Empress Building, including concerts, soul nights, celebrity events, private parties, and weddings. By offering centrally located, high-quality accommodation, the development is expected to attract more tourists, thereby boosting the local economy through increased spending on dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Jemma Evans, General Manager of the Empress Building, commented: "We are incredibly excited about the potential of this development. Transforming the top floor into luxury holiday lets will not only enhance our guests' experience but also contribute significantly to the local community. We are committed to ensuring that this project is carried out with sensitivity to the historic and architectural integrity of the Empress Building."

Jason Mace, Owner and Investor of the Empress Building, added: "This proposal aligns perfectly with Doncaster Council’s goals of promoting tourism and sustainable urban development. By repurposing an existing building, we are maximising the use of existing infrastructure and minimising environmental impact. We believe this project will bring new life to the town centre, create job opportunities, and support local businesses."

The development promises to enhance Mexborough’s appeal, potentially starting a trend for more high-quality accommodation options in the area. However, it is set to spark lively debate among community members. Will these holiday lets transform Mexborough into a thriving hub for tourists and boost local commerce, or will there be opposition due to concerns about changes to the historic building and community?

The Empress Building management welcomes feedback from the community and looks forward to discussing the proposal further with Doncaster Council.

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The Empress Rooms will be named in honour of the most influential individuals who have lived in Mexborough, including rock stars, famous actors, sports champions, and beloved local figures.

1. The Hughes Room 

   Mr. Ted Hughes (1930–1998) was one of the most important English language poets of the 20th century

2. The Walters Room 

   Mr. Hugh Walters, was an actor and writer, renowned for his roles in 1984, The Train Now Standing and Agatha Christie's Miss Marple: The Body in the Library

3. The Tarver Room 

   Mr. Tony Tarver, the popular manager and dance teacher, in the heyday of the Empress Building during the 50s and 60s.

4. The Barron Room 

   Mr. Keith Barron (1934–2017) was an English actor and television presenter, best known for his role in the 1980s series "Duty Free," who also appeared in various films and television programmes.

5. The Irwin Room 

   Mr. John Jo Irwin Represented England, winning a Commonwealth Games gold medal, the World Super Featherweight Title, WBO Inter-Continental Featherweight Title, British Featherweight Title, and Commonwealth Featherweight Title.

6. The Blessed Room 

   Mr. Brian Blessed, OBE, An English actor and adventurer, renowned for his distinctive bushy beard, booming voice, and exuberant personality and performances.

7. The Lavender Room

   Miss Alice Lavender Lee, was the First Miss World, and she was a contemporary of Charlie Chaplin and Tyrone Power.

8. The Hawthorn Room 

   Mr. Mike Hawthorn, Britain's first Formula One World Champion, celebrated for pioneering the nation's success in the sport and setting a high standard for future generations of British drivers.

9. The Priestley Room 

   Mr. Dennis Priestley, is a former English professional darts player who achieved the remarkable feat of winning two world championships. He was the first player to secure both the BDO and WDC world titles.

10. The Oliver Room 

    Mr. Graham Oliver, An English guitarist who was a founding member of the heavy metal band Saxon.

11. The Hague Room

    Mr. James William "Iron" Hague, (1885–1951) was the British heavyweight champion from 1909 to 1911.

12. The Walker Room  

    Ms. Karen Walker is an English former international football centre-forward, who made 83 appearances and scored a record 40 goals.