Rockliffe Hall has had its first planning application approved for a purpose-built pavilion that will house a flagship restaurant led by the resort’s culinary director James Close – former chef-patron of the two Michelin-starred Raby Hunt.
The new restaurant is part of a renovation project which will see Rockliffe become a world-class, gastronomy-focused destination. The project also includes a second planning application to restore the hotel’s Grade II-listed Old Hall.
The proposed 584sqm pavilion will offer a sophisticated, modern space with the external design drawing inspiration from colonnaded architecture and materials that complement the Old Hall. Inside, the venue will feature a bespoke dining area with an open kitchen, designed to enhance interaction between guests and chefs.
“The approval of the purpose-built pavilion for James Close’s new restaurant welcomes an exciting new phase for Rockliffe Hall as a luxury, gastronomy-led destination that delivers exceptional guest experiences and contributes to the local economy,” said general manager Shauna Robb. “We are focused on placing the resort hotel and the North East of England firmly on the hospitality map, attracting travellers from around the globe, and we thank Darlington Council for supporting the application.”
James added: “This new restaurant offers us the opportunity to create a world-class dining destination at Rockliffe Hall. We want to create a special experience that is inspired by our global travel influences, within a unique space that will attract diners locally, nationally and internationally to the North East. With the planning application approved, we are focused on developing the best experience we can for guests, and we look forward to sharing more details on that experience over the coming months.”
Work on the new restaurant building is set to begin in February 2025. During this period, the New Hall accommodation, golf course, Clubhouse, spa, and TERRA restaurant will all remain operational.
The companies collaborating on the project include BSBA Architects, GT3 Architects & Interiors, Identity Consult, IC Planning, BRIMS Construction, Monarch Catering Equipment, DESCO Engineering – electrical and mechanical engineers, and BGP Consulting – structural engineers.