The future of a former hotel in Hartlepool looks to be up in arms once more after its owners look to put it back up for sale....
3rd Jan 2025
The fate of a now-closed hotel in Seaton Carew hangs in the balance once more, as HBC Exposed has uncovered its current owners are considering selling the site to a new investor.
The Staincliffe Hotel, once a prominent landmark, shut its doors for good last year after repeated attempts to turn a profit proved unsuccessful. Following its closure, the property was acquired by a development corporation, which sought public consultation on its future. Proposals ranged from the hotel’s demolition to make way for luxury housing to potential preservation and redevelopment.
Since then, however, progress appears to have stalled. Despite the building’s contents reportedly being sold at auction, neither the developers nor Hartlepool Borough Council have reportedly been able to agree on a definitive plan for the site. This deadlock has left local residents divided: should the hotel be preserved as a piece of town history, or should it be demolished to create much-needed housing?
A change in circumstances.....Developers claim !
In a recent social media post, Acland Homes, the current owners, hinted at a change of course for the former hotel, with the firm reportedly said to be testing the waters to re-market the property, either for outright sale or as part of a joint venture or partnership for redevelopment. The company cited “a change in circumstances” as the reason for their decision to explore these options.
Seaton Independent Ward Councillor Gordon Cranney has been a vocal advocate for preserving the Staincliffe as a historical building. However, many residents argue that its age and unprofitable history as a hotel make its future uncertain. Concerns are mounting that, in its vacant state, the property could become a target for vandalism or arson—a fate that has befallen other empty buildings in the area.
With the Staincliffe Hotel’s future now up for debate once more, the question remains: should Hartlepool prioritise preserving its history, or focus on redevelopment to meet the towns needs?