Work to start on ‘long overdue’ Chester hotel following 10-year delay

Work is about to start on a ‘long overdue’ hotel development in Chester.

Craigleith Property Group will transform a derelict patch of land in the city centre into a 109-bed venue that was originally approved back in 2007.

A year later the Ixos office block occupying the site on Forest Street was knocked down, but the project stalled during the 2008 global financial crisis.

Planning and development consultancy Lichfields eventually secured an amended permission for the scheme from Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Axiom Architects designed the seven-story development.

Brian O’Connor, associate director at Lichfields’ Manchester office, said: “Following demolition of the office block in 2008 the previous developer suffered financial difficulties and was unable to continue with the development.

“After working closely and constructively with council officers we are pleased to be able to now deliver an acceptable scheme for the site.”

He continued: “This new application makes minor amendments to the hotel scheme approved in the original application.

“The new hotel will provide a vital service, regenerate this long-term derelict site, which is long overdue, and help to generate further use of the facilities and services currently provided in the city.”

Talks are underway to secure a mid-range hotel operator to run the venue.

Lichfields said an announcement is expected early next month, with work due to start soon after.