Premier Inn plans show "real vote of confidence"

Friday 28 June 2019

Premier Inn's decision to open a hotel in Guernsey is a "real vote of confidence in our tourism industry" according to the President of Economic Development.

Deputy Charles Parkinson welcomed the news from the popular hotel chain, and believes it will encourage more tourists to visit the island.

The hotel development is part of a £35m private investment in a site at Admiral Park being led by Comprop. It will also include new office space, a restaurant and a multi-storey car park.

Local business J W Rihoy & Son has been awarded the entire contract for the work.

"This is really all very positive for the island," said Deputy Parkinson. "The construction industry and new office space as well so really, from every economic point of view, it is a good thing."

Pictured: After years of speculation, Premier Inn has announced it is opening a hotel at Admiral Park.

Although concerns have already been raised about how the new 100-room hotel will affect local businesses, Deputy Parkinson is not worried about the island's hospitality sector.

"I think we are seeing shortages of capacity," he continued. "We are aware of situations that are arising now where tour operators would like to bring large numbers of visitors to the island and are simply unable to find the beds for them."

Work on the site is set to begin within the next four to six weeks with the demolition of Sydney Vane House, before the main project begins in the autumn.

"It certainly should be convenient for the business community up in that area," added the ED President.

The project is scheduled to be completed by December 2021.