A dilapidated building at a popular wedding venue will be converted into a bridal suite after plans were approved.

The two-storey lodge at Wentbridge House Hotel near Pontefract is currently used as storage space for the kitchen and restaurant facilities.

But new plans would include renovating it to create two bridal suites, outdoor patio seating areas and sheltered hot tubs.

The property is located on green belt land and is within the Wentbridge Conservation Area.

The heritage declaration, submitted on behalf of applicant James Page, said the works would be in accordance with the “characteristics of the existing house, outbuildings and properties”.

according to Local Democracy Reporting ServiceThe village of Wentbridge has a “strong connection with the history of Robin Hood”, the statement added.

“This is home to a collection of listed buildings within the conservation area, including churches, country houses and the Old Parish Rooms,” he said.

“There are many different styles and materials in this village, creating a unique character throughout the area.”

The proposal also includes the construction of a bridal dressing and make-up room on the ground floor, as well as a feature garden and landscaping outside the building.

Wentbridge House is thought to date back to 1700 and became the home of the Leatham family in 1883.

Edmund Leatham was a partner in the Yorkshire banking firm Leatham Tew and Co, which became part of Barclays Bank.

The building was used as Army headquarters during World War II and was converted into a hotel in 1960.

A council official who recommended the plan be approved said: “The re-use of the building is seen as beneficial and will improve the overall character and appearance of the Wentbridge Hotel area.”

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