Huntingdonshire District Council has confirmed that a derelict hotel in St Neots will be redeveloped and opened.

Question marks have loomed over the future of The Old Falcon hotel on the Market Square in the town for many years.

The Grade II Listed building has been derelict for 20 years since the owner, Dennis Whitfield, bought it for £1 million in 2004.

Despite Mr Whitfield still owning the building privately, Huntingdonshire District Council has confirmed that it has been collaborating with the owner to secure a future for the former hotel.

A spokesperson for Huntingdonshire District Council said: "Significant progress has been made, including detailed structural and condition surveys, the appointment of a skilled design team and heritage consultants, and market testing."

The plans look to bring The Old Falcon back to life, however, HDC says there are significant challenges that will need to be faced during the planning process including bats, public safety and project viability. 

St Neots residents are invited to have their say on the plans at a public information event on Saturday, August 31. 

Huntingdonshire District Council will be at the Market Square, from 10am till 4pm, to show residents the design proposals as well as discuss the challenges. 

This event is to take place ahead of a formal planning application being submitted in September 2024. 

Executive Councillor for economy, regeneration and housing, Cllr Sam Wakeford, said: "These plans for the Old Falcon are a significant step for our St Neots projects.

"Bringing the Old Falcon back into active use as part of enhancing the town centre will help improve conditions for local businesses, boost footfall and create a more vibrant community space."

For anyone who cannot attend the public information event, you can click here to access the design proposals.