In March it was revealed the iconic five-star Chester Grosvenor Hotel would close due to structural issues but now owners Grosvenor say it will reopen after refurbishment – but hundreds of people will still lose their jobs. Tony McDonough reports
Hundreds of workers will be out of a job at the end of this month when the iconic Chester Grosvenor Hotel closes its doors – despite plans to refurbish and reopen it.
In March the current operator of the hotel, Bespoke Hotels, announced the Eastgate Street venue would close on September 30. Reports suggest staff had been told that structural issues with the Grade II-listed building posed a safety risk.
At the time the long-term future of the five-star hotel was uncertain. This month London property group Grosvenor, which owns the freehold of the building, says it has chosen Martin Property Group as its partner to refurbish and operate the hotel.
However, it estimates the work on the site will take two years to complete meaning the XXX staff who currently work at the hotel will still be out of a job at the end of this month.
Grosvenor, which also built the £1bn Liverpool ONE retail and leisure complex, said the family-owned Martin Property Group has “a reputation for landmark regeneration across the UK and Ireland and a track-record for operating a diverse portfolio of luxury hotels”.
It will not only undertake the work on the building but will also operate the hotel once it reopens. It has a “clear understanding” of Chester following its recent work in revitalising Eastgate Shopping Centre and in bringing Harrods to the city.
While final plans are still being developed, the scheme will bring together sensitive conservation and contemporary design. Subject to planning, the works are expected to take around two years from when they begin.
Nicholas Dobbs, head of Grosvenor’s family office and Grosvenor Rural Estates, which will retain the freehold of the hotel site, said: “Grosvenor has deep roots in Chester and a long-term commitment to its success.
“It was vital to us to choose a partner that shares our values and outlook, with the credentials, independence and perspective needed to protect the character that makes the hotel so special.
“Our ambition is to reopen as The Chester Grosvenor, creating new employment, strengthening Chester’s tourism and hospitality economy and delivering long-term value for the city.”
Martin Property Group acquired the freehold of the former Grosvenor Shopping Centre, now Eastgate Shopping Centre, from Grosvenor in 2022 and has since invested heavily in the centre and its wider estate.
This also includes the redevelopment of the former Debenhams building, bringing Harrods to Chester and creating a major new retail destination in the heart of the city.
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Paul G Martin, managing director of Martin Property Group, added: “The Chester Grosvenor represents the next chapter in our significant and growing investment in the city. This partnership reflects our confidence in Chester and our long-term commitment to the city.
“We understand the responsibility that comes with being the long-term custodian of a building of this importance.”