The new owners of a popular hotel in Cirencester are set to give a boost to the local economy with a million pound revamp and the promise of new jobs.
Respected hoteliers Aidan and Sarah Stevens have purchased the 39-bedroom Stratton House Hotel on Gloucester Road and are set to kick-off an ambitious £1m refurbishment programme at the picturesque 17th century venue with plans to add 10 jobs, bringing the hotel’s team to 40.
The couple are keen to update the Georgian-style hotel and replicate the success of their other venue, introducing their brand of 'relaxed elegance'.
They also own the 31-bedroom St Andrews Town Hotel in Droitwich, Worcestershire, which since taking over in 2012 they have transformed.
Aidan said: “To be the new owners of such an historic venue here in the heart of the Cotswolds is hugely exciting for us.
“We have big plans for a full refurbishment of Stratton House and are determined to replicate the success we’ve achieved at our hotel in Worcestershire – ensuring we achieve the elegance and modern style people look for, but with a relaxed atmosphere.
“The first phase of our overhaul programme is already starting and guests will see an immediate difference, including upgrading the hotel’s free wifi which will be especially useful for business guests. In the autumn, we’ll begin the bedroom refurbishment and next spring we will overhaul the Oak Room bar, drawing room and the restaurant - eventually hoping to also add a new function room.”
The couple also confirmed that the existing team of 30 will be kept on as part of the new ownership and that locally sourced food will continue to be a feature of the hotel’s menus.
Sarah added: “The team here at Stratton House are hugely experienced and dedicated. They will be vital in our plans going forward and as we progress we will be taking on around 10 new members of staff and looking to recapture the hotel’s place at the heart of the community in Cirencester.”
Mrs and Mrs Stevens have purchased the hotel from the Oxfordshire-based St James’s Hotel Group. Stratton House features a walled garden and extensive off-road parking.