Today’s news in brief – 4/12/23
The All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Hospitality and Tourism released a report endorsing a mandatory short-term lets registration scheme. The report addressed issues such as the lack of data on short-term lets and insufficient transparency regarding their location and function. The APPG recommended the establishment of a national aggregated data set on short-term lets in England and proposed that local authorities enforce compliance against health, safety, and relevant legislation. The registration scheme, according to the report, should collect comprehensive data to ensure clear and proportionate penalties. Simon Jupp MP, the chair of the APPG, emphasised the need for a level playing field, supporting the government’s decision to introduce a registration scheme to enhance consumer protection and confidence in the accommodation market.
The freehold of Gibbon Bridge Hotel and Restaurant in Lancashire has been listed for sale. The property, situated in nine acres of landscaped gardens, offers 30 en-suite bedrooms, a wedding venue with three function rooms, and additional facilities like BBQ areas, a tennis court, and a helipad. The sale includes planning permission for more bedrooms and leisure facilities. Savills Manchester expects high investor interest, citing the property’s unique development potential and prime location in the Forest of Bowland, a popular area in East Lancashire.
Leeds City Council’s city plans panel approved plans for a new Premier Inn hotel at Leeds Kirkgate Market. The six-story development, set to start construction next year, will feature 143 rooms, a bar, and a restaurant. The ground floor will include commercial units and a council-run gym. The hotel aims to create around 50 new jobs locally and approximately 80 jobs during construction. The approval represents a milestone in the regeneration of the area around Leeds Kirkgate Market, contributing to the city’s vibrancy and attractiveness for visitors.
Norwood Hall Hotel in Aberdeen has appointed Andrei Secuianu as its new general manager. Secuianu, with experience in both large multinational hotel groups and boutique destinations, previously served as the general manager of Norwood’s sister hotel, Grange Manor. The hotel, located within the grounds of Pitfodels Castle, offers 73 luxury bedrooms and caters to conferences, weddings, and funerals. Secuianu expressed excitement about strengthening customer relationships, developing the brand, and identifying growth opportunities for the hotel in Aberdeen and beyond.
