The Empire Hotel has for a long time been a part of the scenery in Young and has gone through some turmoil over the past few years, however the newest owners of the landmark plan to bring it back to its glory days.

Ross and Irene Ambler were in the market for a long term property investment when they came across the listing for the Empire Hotel and began dreaming of what they could do with the historic building.

“We have been liaising with heritage officers,” Mr Ambler said.

“We will be making some cosmetic renovations up stairs which will be run and rented out by Ray White Real Estate as hotel type accommodation.”

However, the burning topic on local’s lips is what will become of the bar and the function centre.

“The bottom of the building, including the bar and restaurant will be leased out to a commercial tenant,” Mr Ambler said.

“The function room will be available for lease as well.”

According to the couple who ever leases the function room will be open minded about all the possible and varied uses of the balcony and attached rooms.

Mr Ambler believes the room has been under used in the past and would like to see local companies holding meetings there as well as other types of functions.

Mr and Mrs Ambler have already visited Young twice and have said that they feel a connection with the local area.

“We love it here, it is a beautiful area,” Mrs Ambler said.

“We have plans to visit Young regularly and make the town our second home,” Mr Ambler said.

Ray White Real Estate are managing the leases on the building which include the restaurant, bar, upstairs function room and the hotel style accommodation.

“If anyone wants more information they can contact David Coombes at Ray White Real Estate,” Mr Ambler said.

A leasing campaign will soon me launched with opportunities for locals to take advantage of.