AN historic former school building could be converted into a restaurant as part of wider plans to create a new leisure destination in the heart of Cheshire.

Bolesworth Investment Company has submitted plans for the 19th Century former Harthill School, which would see the Grade II school building and schoolmaster’s house completely renovated, while an outdoor trail and play area would also be built.

The school building itself dates back to 1868 but was ravaged by fire in 1922 and rebuilt. It is owned by the Bolesworth Estate and was a primary school until 2008, when it was closed by the then Cheshire County Council and had just nine pupils. It became a cookery school in 2011 under noted chef Brian Mellor, but closed two years ago. It has been vacant ever since, although the schoolmaster’s house has had a tenant.

Branded The Harthill Hub and Trails, the new project would see the demolition of a 1960s extension, conservatory and barn. A new singly-storey rear extension and patio areas would be built, along with a play area and a car parking area with 59 spaces. There would also be overnight staff apartments.

A design and access statement submitted in support of the plans said the project aimed to ‘strategically enhance footfall’ in the area, while ‘directly bolstering the economic sustainability’ of local rural service businesses.

It said: “The Grade II Listed building is to be sensitively restored and renovated to a high quality with interior fit out to reflect the building’s heritage. Key existing features have been incorporated into the design to ensure the historic fabric is celebrated.”

As well as the restaurant, the plans also include an outdoor play area and trails which backers hope will be a new leisure destination for the county, while also boosting the local area’s economy.

Additional documents submitted in support of the plans, said: “Bolesworth Estate is looking to extend its current offerings by adding an outdoor leisure destination in Harthill.

“A brand new, exciting leisure space that will celebrate the unique Cheshire countryside with a multitude of offerings for all the family.”

No date has yet been set for a decision.