Premier Inn ventures into Widnes

PLANNING permission has been granted for a new 60-bed Premier Inn hotel at the Venture Fields leisure scheme in Widnes – a joint venture between property firm St Modwen and Halton Borough Council.

The four-storey hotel will also include an adjoining ft Brewers Fayre restaurant. Other residents to sign up to the waterfront scheme, which is now 95% let, include cinema operator Reel Cinemas, Frankie & Bennie’s, an ice rink operated by Planet Ice Rink and a bowling alley known as Widnes Superbowl.

Richard Bakes, development manager, St. Modwen said: “The hotel will make a significant contribution to the leisure complex and the on-going regeneration at Widnes Waterfront.

“The facilities at the scheme, particularly the ice rink, will attract people from all over the North West and Premier Inn will provide an ideal base for those hoping to get the most from their trip to the region.”

Kevin Murray, Senior Acquisition Manager – North, for Whitbread Hotels & Restaurants, said: “Venture Fields is an outstanding development and an exciting regeneration project for Widnes. 

“It’s good news for Premier Inn that we’re part of it and good news for our customers.  What’s more, our investment will bring jobs as well as increased visitor spend to the town, strengthening the local economy and helping Widnes to prosper.”