Plans have been revealed for an independently owned boutique spa hotel in the heart of Norwich.

Designed by Hudson Architects, the hotel – to be located close to the city centre’s shopping quarter – will feature a spa on the first floor and 26 bedrooms across two upper floors.

The project is driven by hospitality entrepreneur Dennis Bacon, who already owns and operates the 38 St Giles boutique B&B and a restaurant in the city. He is also the founder of coffee chain Alchemista.

“We're looking at having between six and eight treatment rooms and a whole range of other amenities, which will offer the city its first five-star spa experience,” Bacon said.

“The emphasis will be on a range of therapeutic treatments, and we're also looking at different wet room options and steam rooms."

“A separate area at the front of the building will cater for manicures and pedicures and we'll have a hairdressing salon.

“The treatment menu is likely to include a mix of western and authentic Asian therapies, and the spa design will reflect these influences.”

Plans for the hotel have been submitted with Norwich City Council and construction work could begin as early as next year – with an opening slated for 2019.