Travelodge set to develop Newark hotel

Hotel chain Travelodge has agreed terms to open a new 64-bedroom hotel in Newark.

Site owner and developer MF Strawson has submitted a planning application seeking permission to demolish the remaining buildings on the site of the former Robin Hood Hotel in Newark and build three ground-floor retail/restaurant units, with the new hotel located on the two upper floors above.

Development consultant to MF Strawson, Tim Bradford managing director of Lincoln-based Banks Long & Co said: “This is a real opportunity to complete the Beaumond Cross/Asda development. We have looked at every way of retaining even a small part of the existing buildings on the site, but the requirements of Travelodge mean that our only option is a new building.

“This multi-million pound scheme will breathe real life into this important and prominent town centre junction location”.

Head of acquisitions at Travelodge, Tony O’Brien added: “We have looked at a number of sites in Newark and could have invested on the ring road but felt that it was important to locate in the heart of the town centre and bring added custom to local businesses.

“The Travelodge brand has seen significant investment over recent years and we are convinced that the Beaumond Cross site is best for us, our customers and the town as a whole”.

Director of MF Strawson, Niel Strawson said: “We have worked hard to identify a solution to complete the final phase of the Beaumond Cross development. Travelodge allows us to deliver a scheme on this important site which will bring real benefits to Newark residents, local businesses and finish what we started over 10 years ago”.

The plans for the development include pavement widening around the Lombard Street/Beaumond Cross frontages of the new development, which will improve pedestrian safety at this busy junction.

Work could start on the development towards the end of 2016, if planning consent is granted.