Cookery school revamp to catalyse future development

A senior figure at Bolesworth Estate, which is behind plans to repurpose a historic former cookery school building into a pub and restaurant, has said that the scheme will act as a “catalyst and platform to really showcase what Cheshire West has to offer”.Earlier this month, the company submitted plans to change the use of the former Harthill Cookery School into a food and drink venue, in a move which would create up to 30 jobs once operational.The grade II-listed building dates back to the early 1800s but has lain vacant since the school’s closure in 2020.Alongside the hospitality element, the proposal looks to create an accessible 1,000-metre walking trail with interpretive areas and a play area, alongside a 59-space car park, including four disabled spaces and four electric vehicle charging pointsBolesworth’s managing director Nina Barbour said its long-term vision is to work in partnership with Sandstone Ridge Trust and create a venue which supports the local economy while complementing its scenic surroundings, nature, and biodiversity.She said: “As well as creating a brand-new leisure space that generates footfall and creates jobs, we want to breathe life back into what is one of the most beautiful areas of Cheshire.”We are mindful of the impact it will have locally as this is such a historic building, and the response has been positive and welcoming, with many people keen to see an empty site turned into something that will benefit the community, notably families, walkers, and small businesses.”The emphasis is on quality, from the design and construction of the restaurant to customer service and food and beverages – we will be setting the bar high.”As part of a vision that stretches over the next five years and beyond, we will be looking at the leisure, hospitality and accommodation offering across the 6,500-acre Bolesworth Estate for residents and visitors to the area.”Barbour added: “There are so many opportunities out there, notably around Sandstone Ridge which is a stunning location fully deserving of AONB status; this project will support that and give the village of Harthill and surrounding areas an economic boost. Together with local businesses and stakeholders we plan to use this project as a catalyst and platform to really showcase what Cheshire West has to offer.”