Published: June 5, 2024 | Updated: 5th June 2024
Plans to build a 100-bedroom Premier Inn hotel in the centre of Dorchester could move forward after town councillors expressed their unanimous support this week.
The project would see the derelict former Marks & Spencer store on South Street redeveloped as part of an estimated £11 million investment from Whitbread, Premier Inn’s parent company.
Research commissioned by the company also suggests the hotel would contribute roughly £3 million a year to the local economy, with jobs available throughout the roughly 18-month construction period and around 30 full-time positions after opening.
Premier Inn has assured it has ‘no plans’ to close the hotel at Brewery Square if South Street goes ahead.
The next step will be a planning decision from Dorset Council.
Residents can still leave feedback on the county council planning portal until 21 June.
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