Exciting developments are underway concerning the luxury spa project being established at the former JR Taylor store in the heart of St Annes, but there’s a twist: construction is currently paused. This intriguing update comes from the Gazette, which has confirmed that Corbenyah Properties had been diligently working to transform the old JR Taylor department store into a lavish five-star spa since the summer of 2023.
However, recent observations indicate that progress on the building, which has been shrouded in scaffolding, has noticeably slowed down over the past few months. In a recent statement, the interior design team from the Nanu Group confirmed that the project is now 'on hold'. This raises questions about the future of the spa and its anticipated launch.
The Nanu Group, responsible for the interior design, initially showcased their ambitious vision for the Sanctuary Spa on their website, complete with stunning CGI images that capture the luxurious essence of the project. These visuals were circulated in a local Facebook group, where they received an overwhelming wave of positive feedback from the community, all marveling at the sleek and opulent designs.
When the Gazette reached out to the Nanu Group to share these captivating images with readers, they were informed that the project is indeed 'currently on hold'. On their website, the Nanu Group has provided a brief overview of the redevelopment plans, stating: "Set to launch in 2025, we have secured the listed building status to transform this historical department store into a premier 5-star spa featuring a rooftop bar, ensuring an unparalleled spa experience."
This comprehensive renovation aims to turn the former department store into a remarkable multi-story spa facility. The plans include not only a rooftop bar but also immersive spa experiences, various dining options, and even a private cinema—an enticing concept for potential visitors.
So what exactly are the plans for the former JR Taylor store? Back in March 2023, planning permission was granted to repurpose the JR Taylor department store along with the adjacent HSBC bank into a luxurious spa, restaurant, bar, and hotel complex. Key components of the renovation include the demolition and reconstruction of the first and second floors, the addition of a spa in the basement, and a vibrant restaurant, bar, and spa entrance on the ground level.
The treatment rooms will be located on the first floor, complemented by four exquisite suites on the second floor, topped off with that much-anticipated rooftop bar. It’s worth noting that JR Taylor entered administration back in January 2015 due to 'trading difficulties' and has sat vacant for the last decade, making this redevelopment particularly significant for the area.
Both Fylde Council and Corbenyah Properties have been contacted for further comments on this situation. What do you think about the current hold on such an exciting project? Are you hopeful it will resume soon, or do you believe there may be more challenges ahead? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
