Posted on 18th Sep
Images of Newark’s new hotel development have been unveiled.
Due to open in February 2021, the 66-bedroom Travelodge is well into its second phase of construction, with the site being a hive of activity in recent months.
The development will generate up to 70 new jobs and further enhance Newark as a tourist destination, while creating new retail opportunities for the ground floor units, supporting further regeneration over the coming years.
The first phase of the hotel construction involved retaining the Grade II listed structure and façade. Conservation-led repairs have been undertaken to the shell of the building and in recent weeks, connections from this original structure to the new steelwork frame were complete.
Within the steel frame, the inside is now a recognisable hotel space, with corridors and the structures of individual bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms now taking shape.
When finished, the development will also be complemented by three commercial hospitality or retail units.
Newark and Sherwood District Council said its long-term approach is to provide a range of new uses for the town, including additional food and beverage providers, retail outlets and events, as well as extra overnight accommodation, enhanced educational prospects and an improved residential offer in the town centre.
Coun David Lloyd, leader of the council, said: “These are really exciting times, with really promising town centre developments. We want to create further confidence in the town, increase and improve its profile to act as a catalyst for further investment in facilities, services and new developments for the local community.
“With regard to the Travelodge development, we promised that we would work to bring an end to this blight on the town and we’re delighted to be on the home stretch.”
In July, Newark was one of the first to submit its bid for the Government’s multi-million pound Town Fund. With funding expected to be announced in the coming months, its Town Investment Plan identified thirty projects, spanning the next 30 years, with a focus on further regenerating the town centre, boosting businesses and improving infrastructure.
Following the purchase of the iconic Buttermarket building in December 2018, the district council has secured several high profile tenants including national restaurant and bar chain, Tambo Lounge and most recently, Nottinghamshire-based Iguazu, bringing ethically sourced, fair trade products to Newark’s high street.
This is in addition to retained tenants: Hobsons Shoes, and homeware and gift store, Gracegentle, which help showcase the Buttermarket’s diverse tenant mix.
