Go-ahead given for luxury hotel at Birkwood House in Lanarkshire

Planning permission has been granted for the £7m development of a 34-bedroom luxury hotel at Birkwood House, a crumbling Victorian mansion in Lanarkshire.

Developers Jo and Dan Lloyd, who are working in conjunction with property company Envestco, have already completed the clearance of a number of dilapidated buildings, including a former ward block and sanatorium, from the grounds.

Dan Lloyd said, "Having been on site for three years, we have developed a huge affection for Birkwood and the local community. We feel privileged to be granted planning, and as custodians of this important part of Scottish ancestry, undertake to carefully and intelligently restore the house while ensuring that its glorious estate is sensitively developed."

The hotel, which is set to open in 2016, will have a restaurant and bar, with a spa being added at a later stage.

The hotel, which enjoys open woodland views, is expected to become a major destination for weddings, conferences and special events.