Premier Inn hotel to bring 25 jobs to Dudley

Premier Inn has revealed plans to open a hotel in Dudley, in a move that would create around 25 jobs.

The nationwide chain wants to build a 63-bed hotel in Castlegate Business Park at a cost of £3.5 million.

Bosses say the hotel would provide a huge boost for local businesses and tourism across the area.

It would come hot on the heels of a 100-bed hotel being built in Walsall. A 79-bed hotel is also being built in Lichfield.

Commercial property developer Stoford, which has submitted the planning application, also wants to build a restaurant next to the hotel, with car parking.

If the proposal is approved by Dudley Council, the hotel could be open in time for autumn next year.

Head of acquisitions for Premier Inn owners Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants, John Bates, said: "Premier Inn is expanding aggressively across the UK as we keep up with strong demand for our high quality, affordable product and search out new exciting locations for our customers.

"Castlegate Business Park is an ideal location for a new Premier Inn in the Black Country, with great road access and plentiful restaurants and entertainment nearby for our customers."

The development would be built on land owned by the Homes and Communities Agency. Director of Stoford, Matt Burgin, said: "Our plans reinforce our long-standing commitment to the Black Country that has seen us deliver a number of major schemes.

"This latest investment will likewise help to create new jobs, support local businesses and boost tourism," he added. The plans have been welcomed by Councillor David Sparks, Dudley Council leader. He said: "It is pleasing that Premier Inn wants to open a new hotel in Dudley. It is one of several hotels that have opened in recent years."

By Alex Ross