THE former Knavesmire Manor Hotel in York is set to be turned back into a magnificent home.

The Press reported in July how the property in Tadcaster Road, once the home of the Rowntree family, and one of York's few remaining privately owned hotels, had been sold and was to close its doors.

Now John Reeves, chair of the Helmsley Group, said clients had acquired the building and secured permission for the change of use to a private residence.

"Knavesmire Manor sits on an elevated site overlooking the Knavesmire in one of the best positions in the city and will create a fantastic, family home of some 6000 sq ft," he said.

"There are few opportunities to create the type of home that attracts the employers which York needs, so we believe the demand is there.

"We frankly considered a smart apartments conversion, which is what has happened to many of the properties here, but this property deserves to be brought back to its original status, if possible.

"Many of the period features that will make this an amazing house are still intact, although in need of TLC and most will be retained during the conversion."

He said plans had also been submitted for two new, 5-bed houses, in the rear, extensive grounds built in traditional styles.