CHESTER’S new 60-bedroom Travelodge was officially opened as part of a £2.5m investment which has created 20 jobs.
Chester MP Christine Russell performed the official opening, escorted by a dozen Roman soldiers.
The hotel will offer rooms from £29 per night and is located in the former telephone exchange building on St John Street. It is the company’s 345th Travelodge.
Guests at the official opening were treated to a Roman themed party, which marked a ‘Celebration to Janus’, the Roman God of New Ventures and New Beginnings.
A dozen Roman soldiers, two horn-blowers and a standard bearer greeted visitors, while Alison Watson, community heritage manager at Chester History & Heritage, gave a presentation on the history of the Travelodge building.
Guests feasted on Roman delicacies, including figs, olives, honey and yoghurt, and cheeses.
Hotel manager Annie McIntyre said: “There is a desperate need for low-cost accommodation within Chester and our hotel is ideally situated for both business and leisure travellers.”
Mrs Russell said: “Annually, Chester attracts 15 million day trippers and the opening of Chester Central Travelodge will encourage these visitors to turn a day trip into a short break.
Chester Central is the first of the company’s hotels in the North West to have the new Travelodge room design. Created in a contemporary style, rich tone furnishings and mood setting coloured lighting.
