Plans Unveiled to Transform Wolverhampton Shop into Hotel and Gym

A vacant retail space in Wolverhampton city centre is set for transformation into a hotel and gym, according to plans submitted by the easyGroup. The proposal involves converting the former Sports Direct store located on Queen Street, which has remained unoccupied since 2021 after the sportswear retailer relocated to a new flagship outlet in the nearby Mander Centre.

The ambitious project aims to create a 52-bed hotel alongside a gym, providing much-needed accommodation options for visitors to the city. The application indicates that the new hotel will generate approximately 12 jobs in the area. A statement accompanying the proposal highlighted the significance of this development, stating that it represents a “high-quality and sustainable redevelopment” for Wolverhampton.

Revitalizing the Urban Landscape

The easyGroup emphasizes that the conversion will not only enhance the visual appeal of the existing building but will also contribute to the local economy by attracting both tourists and business visitors. The plans include modern facade enhancements aimed at revitalizing the “dated” appearance of the structure.

According to the application, the development aligns with the city’s regeneration objectives, balancing contemporary architecture with functionality and sensitivity to the local context. The statement asserts, “[The project will] support the local economy by attracting tourists and business visitors and re-use and revitalise an existing structure in a sustainable manner.”

In addition to the hotel and gym, a separate planning application was submitted to the City of Wolverhampton Council for the conversion of the ground floor of the Queen Street building into four new retail units. This proposal aims to reinvigorate a large, vacant retail space by providing flexible and affordable commercial units that will support local enterprise.

Boosting Economic Vitality

The application emphasizes that bringing these premises back into active use will increase foot traffic, enhance the visual appeal of Queen Street, and positively contribute to the local urban environment. According to the easyGroup, the redevelopment reflects a commitment to enhancing the economic vitality of Wolverhampton city centre.

As the plans progress, stakeholders and community members will be looking closely at how this project unfolds, with hopes that it will bring renewed energy and opportunity to the area. The easyGroup’s initiative marks another step towards revitalizing Wolverhampton’s commercial landscape, promising to deliver both aesthetic improvements and economic benefits to the city.