The historic grade-II listed Bodmin Jail is investing £30m in the redevelopment of its visitor attraction in Cornwall by the middle of next year, including a new 63-bed state-of-the-art hotel and the creation of dozens of jobs.
Work for the scheme is now underway, as all planning conditions have been satisfied.
The project will see the refurbishment of the derelict cell blocks on the civil and naval wings and convert them into 63 hotel rooms above part of the museum.
Each ensuite bedroom will be formed from three cells and interiors will feature colours and textures inspired by the aged, weathered stone. A glazed rooflight running the complete length of both wings will create a central atrium for the hotel.
An external lift and core, both clad in charred timber, will improve circulation and servicing.
The project will also include a new £8.5m, 1,200sqm 'Dark Walk' attraction which will feature a series of themed rooms containing scenic sets, films and projections to immerse visitors in the history of the area and allow them to share the experience of inmates of Bodmin Jail during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The works should be completed mid-2019.