What's Happening?
Whitbread has secured a lease agreement for a new Premier Inn hotel on Lower Bristol Road in Bath. The planned development will replace the vacant Beazer House office building with a six-story, 68,000-square-foot hotel. The new facility will include 152 bedrooms, an on-site restaurant, and a bar on the ground floor. The location is within a 10-minute walk of Bath Spa railway station and the Roman Baths, positioning it to attract leisure guests. Bath receives approximately six million overnight and day visitors annually, according to Bath and North East Somerset Council. Construction is scheduled to commence in early 2026, with the hotel expected to open in 2028. This development will increase Premier Inn's presence in Bath City Centre to two hotels, offering over 250 rooms.
Why It's Important?
The expansion of Premier Inn in Bath City Centre is significant for Whitbread's growth strategy in the UK hospitality market. By increasing its presence in a popular tourist destination, Whitbread aims to capitalize on the high volume of visitors to Bath, enhancing its market share in the region. The project aligns with Whitbread's sustainability goals, aiming for a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating and operation solely on electricity from renewable sources. This commitment to sustainability reflects broader industry trends towards environmentally responsible business practices. The development also contributes to local economic growth by creating jobs during construction and operation phases.
What's Next?
Construction of the new hotel is expected to begin in early 2026, with the hotel targeted to open in 2028. Upon completion, it will expand Premier Inn's presence in Bath City Centre to two hotels and more than 250 affordable bedrooms. Whitbread's ongoing expansion of Premier Inn and hub by Premier Inn in the UK and Ireland is part of its strategy to grow its hotel network to 125,000 rooms. The company currently operates 850 locations with over 85,000 bedrooms.
Beyond the Headlines
The development of the new Premier Inn hotel in Bath City Centre highlights the increasing importance of sustainable practices in the hospitality industry. Whitbread's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and operating on renewable energy sources sets a precedent for other companies in the sector. Additionally, the strategic location of the hotel near major tourist attractions underscores the role of accessibility in attracting leisure guests, which is crucial for maximizing occupancy rates and revenue.
