A PLANNING application to convert the listed Rainhill Hall into a wedding venue and hotel has been formally submitted.

The Star reported as developer and owner of Liverpool-based Signature Living Lawrence Kenwright, purchased the historic building, also known as Loyola Hall.

A planning application has been received which seeks to convert the building into a "high quality hotel".

The Grade II listed building has a history stretching back to 1824 when it was built by landowner Bartholomew Bretherton.

It had been used for spiritual retreats by the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) who bought it in 1923.

However, its long-term future had been thrown into doubt since its closure in 2014 by the Jesuits, with the hall since been used in partnership with Camelot for residential use by people who agreed to act as guardians of the property.

Proposals state that given the listed status of the building "due regard" was had to preserving the building and any features of special architectural or historic interest which it possesses.

Plans seek to create 14 rooms on the lower ground floor and a function room and areas designated to a spa and gymnasium.

The upper ground floor would contain 10 rooms with more space for a function room area and restaurant and dining facilities, kitchen, bar and a reception/waiting area.

First floor plans comprise of 19 hotel rooms, including the bridal suite for wedding events.

And the second floor would have four hotel rooms, with two staircases for access from below.

Mr Kenwright spoke to the Star in December about his plans for the venue.

“We think Rainhill needs that hall back," he said.

“The development will bring about 70 jobs. This isn’t going to be normal, we are going to try and make this stand apart."

He said he had met with guardians of the building allowing them to stay for the intermediate period and that the public had responded warmly to the plans for the site.

“The response has been 100 per cent positive, I don’t think there has been a single negative one," he added.

The plans are on public consultation until Friday, March 9.