Latest phase of extensive Luton Hoo renovation project to create 36 jobs and '5 star experience'

An extensive renovation programme to ensure the iconic venue continues to meet guest and visitor needs for generations to come began after the estate closed almost a year ago.

Applicant Luton Hoo Park Limited, part of Arora Management Services Limited, submitted full plans to demolish an entire function block and partially demolish a residential block at Luton Hoo Hotel Golf and Spa.

The project involves building a part one-storey, two-storey and three-storey extension, external alterations, parking area with coach spaces, landscaping and floodplain works, according to a report to Central Bedfordshire Council’s development management committee.

Principal planning officer Caroline Macrdechian told the committee: “The intention is to uplift the current offer as part of rebranding the hotel to provide a five-star experience for guests. The current premises was granted planning permission in 2007 for an 84-bedroom hotel and conferencing rooms.

“Upgrades to Warren Weir are one of the public benefits of the proposed development. The demolished buildings will be replaced by a single to three-storeyextension, including basement accommodation, two conference rooms and a restaurant at ground floor level.

“A turning circle would be put at the end of Warren Drive. The work adopts a contemporary design approach. Very special circumstances have been identified which outweigh the harm to the greenbelt.

“The Environment Agency was concerned about the turning circle being close to the lake, but that objection was removed after further talks with the applicant.”

Conservative Caddington councillor Kevin Collins referred to Surinder Arora having “a genuine love of the property and its grounds”, saying: “It’s right to restore the bridge, something the previous owners acknowledged but never delivered on.

“The current facility is absolutely not fit for purpose. It has low ceilings, so you can’t build a decent stage in there and you’re unable to light that space properly. Pillars obstruct sight lines, so people can’t see who’s presenting.

“It could attract follow-on stays. People then visit Whipsnade Zoo or Woburn Safari Park, and eventually Universal Studios (theme park). That brings meaningful investment into Bedfordshire.

“This is a building suitable for product launches and large-scale events. It takes the offering for Luton Hoo, and by implication all of Bedfordshire, to another level.”

Head of planning at Arora Group Mandip Malhotra explained: “Warren Weir has been a failing asset for some time.

“With the improvements, we’re delivering on-site employment opportunities, off-site visitor economy spend and supply chain contracts for local businesses.

“We want a premises which is able to sustain a long-term viable future, as opposed to the already outdated current version. We hope to be reopening by 2028, with a new golf course and revamped Mansion House.”

Conservative Dunstable West councillor Nigel Young suggested: “An enormous amount of money is being spent to ensure the viability of the estate and provide a state-of-the-art venue in Central Bedfordshire.

“The applicant has gone to huge lengths to ensure the work of Capability Brown is respected and improved. Without such a project, I suspect we’d have a decaying, rotting building that would be left boarded up.”

Councillors unanimously approved the plans, subject to conditions and referral to the Secretary of State for development in the greenbelt.