A HOTEL is seeking views in relation to plans that could see it offer cheaper rates to nearby residents.

Rockliffe Hall, in Hurworth, near Darlington, announced plans earlier this year for a one-and-half acre parkland scheme, featuring Alice in Wonderland-themed gardens.

Eamonn Elliott, chief executive of the hotel, told residents at Hurworth Parish Council’s annual assembly last week that he was looking at offering them discounted access to the five-star resorts facilities.

Work is underway on the £750,000 development, which will be called Mischmasch, inspired by a periodical written and illustrated by author Lewis Carroll, who spent much of his childhood at nearby Croft-on-Tees.

Mischmash’s “Wonderland of Curiosities”will include an Alice in Wonderland nature trail, sculptures, a large adventure playground, water fountains and a maze.

Its main feature will be six Arctic cabins in an area of woodland, featuring different indoor experiences including interactive and electronic games and the start of a journey to find the Cheshire Cat.

A new glasshouse will become the venue for pop-up events and weddings, a walled kitchen garden will allow chefs to grow their own produce for the hotel’s three restaurants.

There will also be two tennis courts and a wildflower nature trial around the outskirts of the new site.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Elliott said: “On your door step, you have the best golf resort in the UK and Ireland and we are so proud it is in Hurworth.

“I hope I retire at Rockliffe – I love it. I love Hurworth, I love the area and I love the people.

“We have 250 golf members and 750 spa members. They are our first priority, but the residents of Hurworth are second.”

Mr Elliott proposed a minimal payment for Hurworth residents to get access to the facilities.

“If people are interested, we will look at some form of access card for residents of Hurworth and Croft.

“If we don’t know what people want, we don’t know what to offer them.

“It is another way for us to re-engage with local guys.”

David Wood, Hurworth Parish Councillor, said: “Rockliffe Hall is an asset the village.

“They really want to feel part of the community and do something about it.

“It is still the only five star resort in the North-East – people are aware of Hurworth all over the country as a result of Rockliffe Hall.”

The new development is expected to open by the end of the summer.