Hundreds of jobs promised in Wentworth Woodhouse hotel plan

A £200 million plan will see the 18th century stately home open to the public for the first time, pulling in an expected 12,000-plus visitors monthly.

Architect Clifford Newbold bought the Georgian mansion—Europe’s largest private residence—11 years ago.

Mr Newbold (85) said: “Our vision for the buildings of Wentworth Woodhouse is to find sustainable long term uses that are sensitive to the unique character of the site.

“Our ambition is to see Wentworth Woodhouse once again play its part in the regeneration of the area, creating employment and public enjoyment of this very special place.”

The vast proposals include opening the central and grandest rooms of the mansion house as a museum. A 70-suite hotel and spa will be created within the rest of the building.

Developing the Grade I-listed stable block and riding school into office and business space will create nearly 800 jobs.

An outline business plan has been submitted to the European Regional

Development Funding body, requesting funding assistance for the offices development, which will also include two new buildings.

An English Heritage spokesman said: “We are working with the owners to help them to secure the sustainable re-use of this fantastic place.

“We are particularly keen to see the stables repaired and brought into business use, which would be a real asset for the area, and have been helping to put funding in place for this.”

Wentworth Woodhouse has 1,000 windows, 365 rooms and stables for 100 horses. It was built over 25 years from 1724 for Thomas Watson-Wentworth, Marquess of Rockingham and its east front is twice the width of Buckingham Palace.