PROPOSALS for a £30m development of Studley Castle, which could help ensure its sustainable long-term future, are being looked at.

Studley Castle owners The Firoka Group are looking into plans to convert the castle, which dates back to 1833, into a Warner Leisure Hotel.

Plans include the restoration of the existing castle and stable and its grounds, alongside the development of new bedrooms, entertainment lounges, and leisure facilities in keeping with the current surroundings.

The proposals for the project have been developed with assistance from planning and conservation officers along with Historic England.

Views of local residents and businesses are being invited, followed by the submission of a planning application to Stratford-Upon-Avon District Council in July with a decision on the build to be announced in the autumn.

If successful, building work could commence in early 2016 with the completed hotel set to open in 2017.

Wendy Parry, general manager of the castle, said: "The development is amazing news for the castle. It is long overdue for a refurb and it will definitely help ensure the future of the site.

She added: "We're confident that the plans, which have been worked on for a number of years, will go through."

It is hoped that the development will result in about 180 local jobs in a variety of roles, and will contribute about £5million to the local economy.

Simon Thompson, managing director of Warner Leisure Hotels, added: “We are extremely happy to have found Studley Castle after many years of searching for our ideal 14th property. We are still in the early stages of this process but are excited at the possibilities the hotel holds for guests and the local community.”

A public exhibition is being held at Studley Village Hall on Friday, June 5 from 3pm to 8pm for interested parties to review the details surrounding the proposed plans.