A 120-bedroom hotel proposed for Aberdeenshire’s biggest town could bring millions annually to the local economy.
Travelodge yesterday confirmed they plan to build their first hotel in the town on a currently derelict site – branded an eyesore by locals – on Chapel Street.
The firm, the UK’s largest independent hotel chain, say the hotel would create 16 jobs in Peterhead and bring an estimated £2million a year to the local economy.
And last night Peterhead councillor, Anne Allan, hailed the news as “fantastic”, adding that the site had lain in disrepair for “too long”.
SNP councillor, Anne Allan, said that the structure had been “a blight of the town” for some time, adding: “It’s been an eyesore for a long time, it’s one of these things.
“I’m just delighted it’s finally going. I look forward to finding out when we can expect it to open.”
She added the new hotel would be “absolutely wonderful for the economy”.
In May, workers began to dismantle the unpopular structure on Chapel Street to make way for potential developments on the Chapel Street site.
Scaffolding had been put up in 2010 to cover a dilapidated three-story tenement block, amid fears its stonework was unstable. Floor supports were also fitted inside the building as a precaution.
Mrs Allan said: “Peterhead needs that investment, I’m delighted. Planning has been granted for a hotel on that site, but we didn’t have a name. If at the end of it we get a big hotel, it can only be good in the long run.”
The proposed hotel would be part of a £75million investment across Scotland from Travelodge, which would create 200 new jobs across the nation.
Travelodge chief executive, Peter Gowers, said: “There is a big opportunity to further expand in Scotland. At present, the value hotel market in Scotland stands at 14 per cent, compared to 18 per cent in England and more than 30 per cent in the US.
“By 2030, the budget hotel sector could account for almost a quarter of the UK market, with a similar level of growth expected in Scotland.”
Travelodge will be hoping to recruit a hotel manager, an assistant manager, receptionists, housekeepers and cleaners should the plans get approval.