Plans have been unveiled to convert a historic former department store in Tenby into a spa hotel and restaurant, marking a significant transformation in the heart of the town. The proposal, put forward by Wil Crockford of Bassett Crockford Holdings Ltd in collaboration with agent Gerald Blain Associates Limited, outlines the redevelopment of the former TP Hughes department store on High Street into a 17-bedroom spa hotel, complete with a restaurant and café/bar. The property consists of two buildings flanking St Nicholas’s Lane, with retail facades on both Upper Frog Street and High Street, connected by an Edwardian bridge over St Nicholas’s Lane. TP Hughes department store held its ground on the premises from 1902 until 2017, leaving behind traces of its legacy like a mosaic step on Upper Frog Street and a stained glass window on the bridge.
Situated within the Grade-I-listed medieval town walls of Tenby, a designated scheduled ancient monument, the site last housed the M&Co clothing retailer before its closure announcement last year. Furthermore, the location falls within the town’s conservation area and lies adjacent to three listed buildings, adding to its historical significance. The development plans involve revamping the building’s interior to accommodate the spa hotel, café/bar, and restaurant, including a reconfiguration of staircases, lifts, and partitions. The proposal also includes the restoration of key external architectural features such as sash windows, the bridge, and former shop frontages. Notable elements like a dome, metal railings, and stained-glass windows on the bridge will be preserved and refurbished, enhancing the site’s aesthetic appeal.
In justification of the change of use, the submitted statement highlights the evolving landscape of the high street, citing the closure of multiple retailers in the vicinity in recent years. Although initial considerations for a partial retail space on the ground floor were explored, feasibility concerns led to the current spa hotel concept. The application emphasises the installation of modern amenities like solar panels, heating, and air conditioning systems to enhance the building’s energy efficiency. The proposal is now under review by park planners, with further assessment awaited in the near future.
This ambitious project holds the promise of breathing new life into a heritage site within Tenby, offering a blend of historic charm and contemporary hospitality for visitors to enjoy. The envisioned spa hotel and restaurant aim to contribute to the town’s tourism appeal while preserving the architectural essence of the former department store, aligning with Tenby’s rich cultural tapestry. As plans progress towards fruition, the proposed development stands as a testament to the enduring allure of Tenby’s architectural heritage and the evolving spirit of its community.