Plans to convert the former Martins Bank headquarters building in the centre of Liverpool into a luxury hotel are going ahead despite delays to the programme. The Grade II-listed building opened in Water Street as the headquarters of Martins Bank in 1932.The project to convert it received the go-ahead from city planners last year.

The £40million hotel will include 138 bedrooms and suites, two restaurants, three bars, a spa as well as conference and banqueting rooms.

Many of the bank’s original features will be retained. The main banking hall, which features marble floors and 20 giant columns, will become the hotel reception. The main dining area will be enclosed within the horseshoe-shaped tellers’ counter and the original writing desks kept. The apartment belonging to the former chairman of the bank will be subdivided into two bedroom suites.

A hotel operator has not been announced yet.

Details: www.liverpoolecho.co.uk