Plans for 162-room Chester hotel could create 130 jobs

Chester is in line to get a new ‘lifestyle’ hotel after plans were submitted to Cheshire West & Chester Council.

The scheme, proposed by investment manager Cervidae and Manchester-based development manager AXIS-RE, is for a 162-bedroom development at 1-13 Frodsham Street in Chester city centre.

If approved, it could create more than 130 full- and part-time jobs.

It will offer a top floor restaurant with a rooftop balcony overlooking the cathedral.

The four-storey scheme will include 7,500 sq ft of ground floor retail space.

The plans have been created by the Chester office of architecture practice Donald Insall Associates, which specialises in working on historically sensitive sites.

The style and finish will be targeted at the growing ‘lifestyle’ sector, incorporating the best elements of boutique hotel design alongside the greater affordability and accessibility offered by major operators.

Nick Mullins, director at AXIS-RE, said: “Chester is perennially popular with visitors, but the number of hotel beds has often fallen short of what is required to meet demand, particularly for those seeking a boutique, lifestyle experience.

“The proposed project would be a real asset to Chester, and as the way people use the city shifts away from retail and towards leisure time, the hotel and its rooftop restaurant would play a vital role in helping residents and visitors alike make the most of their time here.”

Tony Barton, chairman at Donald Insall Associates, said: “Historic locations such as central Chester demand architecture that complements the existing buildings while reflecting changing needs and incorporating the best of modern design.

“This approach underpins the plans for the hotel, and, if approved, it will rejuvenate a corner of Chester that holds great potential beyond its current use.”

Cervidae is an international real estate investment and development company, with assets including city centre projects in London, New York, Paris, Birmingham and Dublin.

AXIS-RE is an independent development, investment and asset management firm, with a track record of schemes across the North West.