WLDC want hotel for Whitton’s Gardens

Among other developments in the Elswitha quarter of the town, the council say that a hotel in the Whitton’s Gardens area is ‘desperately needed’ by local businesses.

Policy and Resources Committee chairman Coun Tom Regis said: “Businesses such as Ping Europe Ltd, Eminox Ltd and Paragon Flexibles are expanding here in the town creating more jobs, which is fantastic news. But businesses are telling us there is not enough accommodation for visitors, forcing them to spend the night outside the district. If we can attract a hotel to the site, it will have a knock on effect for the whole district, especially attracting investors and creating jobs and meeting a need which has been highlighted by our major employers.”

The council has identified The Elswitha quarter as a key regeneration priority because it has the potential for leisure facilities, a cinema, restaurants, shops and much more.

Chairman of the Prosperous Communities committee, Coun Malcolm Parish added: “So many businesses are expanding and we need to make sure visitors have a place to stay. By securing a hotel first we can then look at improving the leisure and cultural offer for the town.”

Ping Europe MD John Clark agreed: “The issue comes when we have big groups from eight to 16 visiting and they have to stay in Lincoln and Scunthorpe and it’s not convenient. A local hotel would be a significant benefit for our business and Gainsborough Golf Club.”