UP to 40 jobs are set to be created after plans for a new boutique-style hotel in one of York’s historic city-centre streets were approved.

The 102-bedroom business will replace the Infinity Ltd motorcycle showroom in Walmgate after City of York Council’s planning committee backed the proposals at last night’s Guildhall meeting.

The three-storey structure, to be operated by Sojourn Hotels, will have a restaurant and bar on its ground floor and a roof space providing room for an extra floor.

The existing showroom building will be demolished as Infinity moves to new premises in Piccadilly, where it plans to reopen in March.

Chris Hale, of York-based S Harrison Developments Ltd, the scheme’s developers, said: “It offers so much to the city and is designed to fit in with the historic streetscape of Walmgate.

“The design, in what is a conservation area, is good. As a high-quality operator, Sojourn Hotels will increase choice for visitors, and the location, within walking distance of city attractions, will boost the economy.”

The hotel could be completed and ready to welcome its first guests early next year.