The popular pub chain was granted planning approval by City of
Wolverhampton Council in September for its £15million redevelopment of the
Lichfield Street venue, which will generate around 70 new jobs.
Permission was already in place for the establishment of a heritage centre in
the basement, the conversion of the first, second and third floors into a 71-
bedroom hotel, external and internal alterations - including the creation of a
refurbished and enlarged public house on the ground floor, a first-floor rear
garden terrace and new shopfront.
Approval of the expanded plans now also enables the creation of an
additional 21 rooms in a newly built fourth storey, plus a further four rooms in
an extension over an existing flat roof.
The current 40,000 sq ft space above the pub, with its Art Deco frontage, has
been empty for more than 33 years after being home to the old Co-op store.
Wetherspoon spokesman, Eddie Gershon, said: “We are delighted that the
new planning application has been approved.
“The development highlights our commitment to the pub, its customers and
staff and to the city of Wolverhampton itself.”
City of Wolverhampton Council Leader, Councillor Stephen Simkins, added:
“The expanded planning application from Wetherspoon to develop additional
hotel rooms on top of its already extensive original proposal demonstrates
great confidence in Wolverhampton and will breathe new life into an empty
space at the heart of the city centre.
“It is an exciting proposition that will boost our hotel offer and provide jobs for
local people.
“The council’s city centre transformation works are creating better public
spaces that will attract more visitors and enable businesses to thrive and grow
through a blended approach of retail supported by events and activities in
quality public spaces and city centre living.

“The works on Victoria Street and North Street are demonstrating this and
have enhanced the visitor experience for more than 100,000 people who have
so far attended events at The Halls Wolverhampton since it reopened.
“We welcome this redevelopment from Wetherspoon - one of the biggest
chains in the hospitality sector.”