Jobs hope as hotel work begins

Building work is expected to start on Lincoln's new four-star hotel in the next six weeks.

But the brand name of the 115-room development on the site of the old electricity works building in Brayford Wharf North remains under wraps

Lincolnshire developers Manorcrest has joined forces with Leaf Hospitality to franchise the project under a name they describe as being a "one of the world's most recognised hotel brands".

But Richard Farrar, managing director of Leaf Hospitality said they will not release the name for another four weeks.

And on Wednesday night the planning committee at the City of Lincoln Council gave its final approval for the hotel which is said will create 70 new jobs in the city.

Plans for the hotel include meeting and events rooms designed for conferences and weddings and a bar and restaurant located on the top floor.

There will be an onsite gym and each room will have a flat-screen TV and wi-fi internet access.

Leigh Hall of Manorcrest said: "The development is a great fit for the Brayford North area and will dramatically impact the city's business and leisure offering for both Lincoln's local community and the growing number of visitors to the city."

Cllr Darren Grice, leader of the City of Lincoln Council, said the hotel would boost the local economy.

"This is fantastic news for the city," he said.

"This proves that even during the most difficult of economic times big businesses have confidence in Lincoln.

"We are looking forward to seeing a new high quality hotel on the Brayford that will complement our plans for the city centre."