A planning application has been submitted for a new Premier Inn hotel, in Orpington Town Centre, complimenting a £12 million regeneration project already underway.
Whitbread Hotels, the UK's leading hospitality company and owner of the Premier Inn brand, is proposing the new 61-bedroom hotel, which will be located at the Walnuts Shopping Centre.
An outcome on the planning application is expected in February or March next year and, should consent be granted, construction work on the hotel is intended to commence soon after.
Martin Price, Walnuts Centre Manager, said "This announcement is a great boost to our shopping centre and to Orpington town centre, helping to make it a lively and attractive place to visit, whilst supporting the local economy by creating jobs and attracting trade for the local businesses."
In addition to the Premier Inn, a 7-screen Odeon cinema, 24 hour Pure Gym and variety retailer B&M, three restaurant units and a new public square will also contribute to the transormation of the Walnuts Shopping Centre as the focus of regeneration in Orpington, encouraging further investment in the surrounding area.
John Rumsey, Aquisitions Manager for Whitbread Hotels and Restaurants, said "We are proposing a 61 bedroom Premier Inn to be located in Walnuts House, as part of the Walnuts Shopping Centre, in Orpington. The Premier Inn would play and important part in the regeneration of Orpington town centre and benefit the local economy. It would breathe new life into Walnuts House and create 25 new jobs for the local area.
We are delighted that the planning application has been submitted and look forward to Bromley Council's decision in the coming months"
With excellent access to the public transport network, this location will not only provide an ideal stop for the London business traveller, but will also help in securing Orpington's growing reputation as a popular retail and leisure destination.
The 65,000 sq. ft. cinema development is scheduled for completion in quarter 2, 2015.