Preferred operator revealed for ‘jewel in the crown’ hotel building
Kirklees Council officers are poised to seek approval to move forward with refurbishment and redevelopment of the George Hotel, in Huddersfield.
They will ask for consent for the £20m plans at next week’s – 11 October – meeting of the council’s Cabinet. Proposals also include details about the preferred hotel operator – Radisson Hotel Group.
The George Hotel is in a prominent location on St George’s Square, close to Huddersfield Railway Station.
Kirklees Council acquired the empty building in 2020 with a commitment to bring it back into use and restore it to its former glory.
Earlier this year, essential remedial works began to make the grade II* listed building safe and watertight and to preserve its heritage.
The council says Radisson Hotel Group has been chosen as preferred operator following a “robust and competitive process”.
If the current proposals are approved by Cabinet, a Hotel Management Agreement will be drawn up with the group.
The report being presented to Cabinet asks for £20m to complete the work needed to restore and redevelop the property.
Councillor Graham Turner, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “I am genuinely excited and proud that we have taken a dilapidated building and are about to turn it into something that our residents will be proud of.
“The George Hotel was once the jewel in Huddersfield’s crown, and I am determined to see it restored to its rightful position in the town.
“We have ambitious plans for Huddersfield town centre, plans that will attract visitors from near and far. Having a quality hotel close to travel connections will only add to the appeal of a revitalised, vibrant destination.
“Along with the Cultural Heart and the overall Huddersfield Blueprint, we are taking action to stop the decline of the town. High streets up and down the country have to look for ways to keep town centres alive, what we are doing in Huddersfield could set a great example to many.
“Kirklees is open for business and we will continue to invest in and regenerate our much loved historic buildings.”
