Travelodge wants to build 20 new hotels across Norfolk and Suffolk
The hotel firm says it would bring lots of new jobs to the area
Last updated 28th Mar 2023
Travelodge says its looking at opening up to 20 new hotels in Norfolk and Suffolk - a move that could create hundreds of jobs.
The company is looking at locations including Lowestoft, Norwich, Dereham and Cromer as part of major plans for expansion.
It's currently looking to add around 300 locations over the coming years.
The company said the expansion programme could represent an investment of around £3 billion for third-party investors and create more than 9,000 jobs across the UK.
"A multimillion-pound boost into the local economy"
Steve Bennett, Travelodge's chief property and development officer, said: "In the current climate, local authorities are under extreme pressure to invest in their economy and support regeneration projects.
"This is why we are today writing to 220 local authorities to offer our support, as we can make a real difference.
"Our effective, innovative co-partnership development deals are spearheading regional economic growth and providing a solid long-term revenue stream.
"Britain is now a nation of budget travellers, with more of us choosing to stay in budget hotels than any other hotel type, and this trend is set to grow, which is why we are looking to expand our UK hotel network with a further 300 hotels.
"Adding a Travelodge hotel can be a catalyst to attract new businesses, support regeneration, bring vacant buildings back into economic use as well as attracting thousands of new overnight visitors to the area and revitalising High Streets.
"In addition, our research shows that, on average, Travelodge customers will spend at least double their room rate with local businesses during their stay - this can be an annual, multimillion-pound boost into the local economy."