A FORMER hotel is on schedule to open up again this December.

The former Mount Sorrel Hotel will re-open as The Mount Rooms, on Porthkerry Road, after being vacant since closing two years ago.

Developers are currently giving the building a new lease of life in advance of the opening.

The 42-bedroom hotel was formerly under the Best Western umbrella, but was independently managed.

Cardiff-based developer Chris Spiteri said he expects to open to the first set of re-designed rooms to holidaymakers sooner than later.

He 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.”

The hotel complex, originally three Victorian townhouses, will also be home to other businesses operating from the site including a gym and a beautician’s parlour.

Vale MP Alun Cairns, who inspected the renovation work on the weekend, added: “This hotel is a Barry landmark, I am deeply impressed with the work of Chris Spiteri and his team who are giving the building a bright future.

“The Mount Rooms, a world away from the Mount Sorrel in terms of style and experience, is reflective of the newfound confidence in Barry’s local economy also visible in new developments such as the Pumphouse.

“The re-development is great news for the local economy, for Barry’s image and the revival of local tourism.”