Speculation is growing after signage linked to an award-winning luxury Lancashire hotel appeared on a Whalley building.
The building, a former women's wear shop located in King Street, now bears signage stating it has been "acquired by Northcote", adding that "something exceptional is taking place".
The site, formerly home to Checkmate until its closure in 2021, had previously operated as a bank until 1997. Since 2021, it has stood vacant with little interest from retailers.
Northcote, a luxury hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant based in Langho, has not confirmed detailed plans for the building but said more information will be shared in due course.
Langho-based clothing store Cosgroves posted a photo of the building on social media and said: "Looking forward to welcoming new neighbours to the village and seeing what emerges."
Social media users have reacted positively to the announcement, with one person writing: "A very classy tea room, white tablecloths, relaxing music, beautiful artisan bread, healthy drinks, something serene – that’s my wish."
Others wrote: "If it is Northcote, it will be class," and, "Looking forward to seeing this beautiful building.
"Plans moving forward at last, this will be good for Whalley."
"Exciting," said another.
Another social media user said: "I am glad Northcote got it."
A previous planning application for the site, which is listed as withdrawn, proposed converting the building into a hotel with extensions including one first-floor and two ground-floor guest rooms, as well as a pool, steam room, and sauna in the roof space.
The plans also included a large restaurant with a bar, private dining room, reception area, and lounge, along with outdoor dining fronting both King Street and George Street.
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The application was submitted last year.
Northcote has declined to comment further at this stage.
No further details about the proposed use of the building have yet been made public.
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