FWP to lead The Villa into a new chapter

12 Jun 2026

Plans to secure the long-term future of an iconic Lancashire country house hotel have been drawn up by leading architecture, design and master planning practice FWP.

The proposals have now been submitted to Fylde Council planners. FWP has been commissioned to provide architecture and multidisciplinary support for the project at The Villa at Wrea Green, near Preston.

The hotel, which began life as a 19th century gentleman’s residence, was acquired by Fylde headquartered business Tangerine Group last year.

Founded in 1995 by Fylde entrepreneur David Haythornthwaite, the animal health and veterinary science business is anchored by VetPlus, the global leader in veterinary nutraceuticals.

At The Villa, FWP is looking to update the hotel’s existing facilities, as well as creating the VetPlus Academy, which will provide a dedicated training, teaching and conference centre.

The proposals worked on by FWP’s team include a new 25-metre swimming pool, 20 additional bedrooms and state-of-the-art lecture theatres.

The project is part of a £20million programme of work unveiled by Tangerine Group that includes a new headquarters for the company just two miles away.

Preston headquartered FWP, which has offices in Manchester, Birmingham and London, has a long-standing relationship with Tangerine Group and David Haythornthwaite.

The practice created the masterplan for his award-winning Mill Farm sports village. The 31-acre mixed-use development at Wesham, which is home to ambitious non-league football club AFC Fylde, has grown to be an important contributor the local economy. FWP has been involved in its continued development for 15 years.

David Robinson, FWP Managing Director, said: “The upgrading of The Villa will help protect the future of one of Lancashire’s most iconic leisure and hospitality venues. The plans we have worked on will deliver an exciting new chapter for the hotel.

“This is a very welcome investment in the local economy by a company that has a strong track record of delivery, illustrated by the success of Mill Farm, which has become a true destination venue for sport, leisure and entertainment as well as high-quality logistics and manufacturing operations.”

A community consultation took place ahead of the plans being submitted to Fylde Council.

David Haythornthwaite, Chairman of Tangerine Group, said: “The Fylde has always been home for Tangerine Group, and we are proud to continue investing in the community where the business began.

“Over the past three decades we have grown from a small business in a disused builders’ yard in Freckleton, to a company whose products are trusted by vets in 54 countries across the world.”

Founded in Preston in 1960, today FWP is involved in a host of multi-million-pound sports, leisure, health and cultural projects for a range of clients.

Its work covers all aspects of construction, from cost management to architecture and master planning services. It has grown into a creative force with a national reputation for excellence.