The masterplan, in the works since 2019, includes expanding the Watergate Bay Hotel overlooking Watergate Bay north of Newquay and redeveloping the surrounding bay next to the hamlet of Tregurrian.
Tate + Co's 4,240 sq m expansion of the hotel includes a new five and six storey stone-clad staircase building “inspired by the surrounding terrain”.
The building will house a fitness studio with associated studio and treatment rooms, a restaurant, a staff wellness area and eight family apartments for hotel guests.
A separate, “low-rise” two-story building with a curved green roof will create 12 additional hotel suites and expand the existing Beach Lofts – a part of the hotel that was formerly a Jamie Oliver restaurant before being redeveloped in 2021.
Source: Tate + Co
Tate + Co's Watergate Proposals – Axonometry
Meanwhile, a new semi-circular beach pavilion will house a small shop, food vendors and sheltered areas for visitors.
Improvements to the surrounding bay area include creating a more pedestrian-friendly hub to Watergate Bay, installing a new elevated walkway to the Watergate Hotel and reconnecting the existing coastal path route through the site. The plan also includes new parking spaces.
The proposal was submitted last May and approved by Cornwall Council's planning department in a delegated decision in December.
The planning officer described Tate + Co’s design as “appropriate, high quality and tailored to this specific site”.
Officials concluded that the proposal would “make a positive contribution to the existing tourism offering at the Watergate Bay Hotel,” with new structures and buildings “that complement the appearance and function of the valley floor without unduly compromising its coastal location.” affect”.
Laurence Pinnfire, director of Tate + Co, said the practice's proposed accommodation and public facilities would “provide a more coherent experience without detracting from the beach and cliffs”.
He added: “It’s great to see the wider vision being realized as we carefully improve the area step by step.”
Will Ashworth, director of the Watergate Bay Hotel, said Tate + Co's masterplan would expand and enhance the hotel's guest experience while creating a great public space.