The Mount Rooms, a trendy new hotel replacing the Mount Sorrel on Porthkerry Road in Barry, opened to the public on Sunday with a firework display and drinks reception.
Young Cardiff-based developers Chris Spiteri and Emma Ballson have bought, renovated and re-designed the venerable hotel, which is now taking bookings.
The 44-room hotel complex, originally three Victorian townhouses, is home to a bar and café which are open to non-guests. It will also soon contain a gym and a beautician’s parlour.
The re-development of the site as a hotel has come as a relief to locals, who were concerned by plans submitted by previous owners, UK holiday group, to turn the hotel complex into new houses.
Vale MP Alun Cairns cut the ribbon at the opening, saying, “Chris Spiteri and Emma Ballson have done a fantastic job at giving this iconic building new life in record time. I have seen the hard work that has gone into making this possible, the whole community will be thoroughly pleased with the result.
“The Mount Rooms are exactly the sort of fashionable development that will enhance Barry’s local economy and add to the burgeoning food, drink and service scene that is developing in our town.
“It is risk-takers, with energy and ambition, like Chris and Emma who are making Barry great once more and contributing the expanding jobs market here.”
Chris Spiteri, the developer, said, “It is a huge privilege for us to be bringing a Barry icon back to life. This town is a special place and we look forward to working with local businesses and community groups as we assist with providing quality accommodation and making the best of this venerable Barry building.”
Sarah Doyle, who will be running Mount Coffee, the on-site café open to non-guests, with her husband said, “Local people are really positive about the Mount Rooms project. It is fantastic to see the site being given new life and it is great to be a part of it with our café, Mount Coffee.
“We’re having fresh food delivered every day and are overjoyed to be working on our passion, providing high-quality, affordable food and drink in Barry.”