Visitors check into Chichester's new Travelodge

The £3m Travelodge located in Chapel Street opened to guests on December 9 and has been doing a roaring trade in the run-up to Christmas.

The 76-bedroom hotel is part of a conversion above the Post Office opposite the cathedral and has proved popular with a variety of guests, from business visitors and people visiting family as well as people staying over from Christmas parties.

The hotel has created 20 jobs including reception and housekeeping roles and because of its central location, is expected to do extremely well, with enquiries already received about rooms for next year’s Goodwood events.

Built in less than 12 months, the hotel is predicted to bring in up to £1.3m to the city’s economy each year as guests spend money at restaurants, shops and other attractions.

Manager Kevin Hodnett said: “I am extremely proud to be given the opportunity to run this brand-new Travelodge.

“So far it’s been a mixture of business and pleasure, we’ve had a couple of Chirstmas parties and we also have a couple of long stays. It’s averaging about one night per person and I think we are going to do really well – this is a fantastic location.”

Chichester resident Simon Withers said: “My mum and dad have come down from Yorkshire and are staying here and we think it’s a very good addition to the city.”

Yesterday Chichester Mayor Councillor Michael Woolley was given a tour around the new rooms.

“I’m delighted, but not surprised, to learn that Chichester’s newest hotel is trading so well.

“Tourist visitors have significantly increased in the city this year and hotel beds are in great demand.

“It is encouraging that Traveldoge is supplying more – and in such a splendid location. At a time of economic uncertainty, this helps tourism and business and provides jobs.”