The project involves the redevelopment and sensitive extension of Keepers Cottage in Old Langho, transforming the former Bed & Breakfast into an elegant eight-bedroom boutique hotel. The site benefits from strong transport connections: Old Langho Road leads directly to Northcote Road and the A59, Langho railway station lies just 1.3 miles away with direct services to Blackburn and Manchester, and several bus routes run immediately adjacent to the site. Manchester Airport is also easily reached within approximately 54 minutes.

The redevelopment has been designed with careful consideration of its context, including the principle of development, the visual impact on the surrounding area, effects on residential amenity, existing trees and landscape features, and implications for highway safety. The scheme converts and extends the existing building to provide eight high-quality guest bedrooms, each with its own ensuite. The existing structure has been extended on the south/east elevation to accommodate the new internal arrangements, while the existing porch has been replaced with a new double-height entrance feature. Due to the poor condition of the existing roof and insufficient first-floor head height, the roof has been fully replaced and the eaves raised by one metre, improving both functionality and external appearance.

The ground floor offers a welcoming feature entrance leading into a guest lounge with bar, which opens onto a new terrace for outdoor relaxation. A breakfast room, commercial kitchen, staff room, communal toilets and three ensuite bedrooms -including one fully accessible unit, have also been provided. The first floor accommodates five further ensuite bedrooms along with a quiet seating area, administrative office, and plant and storage rooms. The design prioritises guest comfort, operational efficiency and a distinctive boutique character.

Outdoor spaces have been thoughtfully integrated into the scheme, providing a strong relationship between the building and its landscape setting. Three bedrooms benefit from private patios and gardens, while three others feature balconies offering impressive views of the local countryside. The lounge terrace creates an inviting outdoor social space for guests. Retention of existing trees and shrubs ensures the site remains well screened and maintains its established character, with additional planting and fencing to enhance privacy for neighbouring properties and occupants.

Externally, the scheme takes its cue from the local vernacular and surrounding developments. The removal of existing render reveals the original stonework of the former cottage, and the overall design significantly improves the visual appearance of the property.

Overall, the boutique hotel represents a thoughtful and well-integrated redevelopment of Keepers Cottage, enhancing the site’s appearance, providing high-quality accommodation and engaging positively with its surroundings while ensuring minimal impact on neighbouring properties and local highways.