The former Surrey home of newspaper tycoon, Lord Beaverbrook is to be transformed into a hotel, spa, golf course and cookery school.

Plans for the £60m transformation of the 380-acre estate, in Leatherhead, had been vociferously opposed by locals, the CPRE and the National Trust, but Mole Valley District Council gave the go ahead this week.

Developers, Longshot, which own the Soho-based Groucho Club, acquired the site in April 2011. More recently they bought Mickleham Downs Estate, which was Cherkley Court’s former staff quarters and comprises cottages and 20 acres.

Longshot, chief executive, Joel Cadbury, says: “Today’s announcement that we have been granted planning permission represents a huge step forward on our journey. We have always said that we would create something truly outstanding at Cherkley Court and now we are ready to start work.”

Plans include a 28 five star private rooms or suites, and a brasserie and fine dining restaurant.

There will be an outdoor family swimming pool and a 20m indoor pool at the gym, which will also include aerobics and holistic studios.

Both the health club and the spa will be located at the former coach house. The spa will offer wet and dry treatments and will have six single and two double treatment rooms, sauna, steamroom and ice room, as well as an organic juice and tea bar.

Golf membership will be limited to 500 members, each paying £100,000.