Irish developer Edward Holdings' plans to transform Bow Street Magistrate Court and Police Station in Covent Garden, London, into a luxury hotel have been approved by Westminister City Council.

The Grade II-listed property, acquired by Holdings in 2005, is famous for having held historic figures such as Oscar Wilde, Sir Roger Casement and William Joyce, during their troubles with the law.

Gerry Barrett of Edward Holdings said: "The company is fully aware of the architectural and historical significance of the buildings in Bow Street and is committed to their sympathetic redevelopment. Our aim is to give these buildings the new lease of life that they clearly deserve."

The plans include an 'interpretive centre' which incorporates existing cell blocks at ground and basement level, as well as the preservation of the court rooms as areas of the hotel with public access. The facade will remain intact but the interior will be redesigned by Philip Treacy OBE.

The planning application was prepared with the help of Douglas Wallace Architects and consultants CB Richard Ellis. Discussion have taken place between the developers, the architects, English Heritage, Westminster Council and other key stakeholders to ensure that the building's historical significance is respected.

David Barrett of Edward Holdings said: "It has taken the best part of three years to bring this application forward for planning. Westminister Council has recognised that our proposals represent the best way to safeguard the importance of these important landmark buildings and create a new destination hotel for London, right opposite the Royal Opera House."

The hotel will join Edward Holdings' g hotel in Galway, Ireland, also designed by Philip Treacy, and the d hotel in Drogheda as well as a new, unnamed, property in Dublin's Grand Canal Dock set to open in 2009.