WORKS are set to begin at a landmark hotel in Stroud. 

The owner of the Imperial Hotel has announced that construction will begin next week.

Simon Berg, Director of London-based S2 Estates, owns the hotel, which has been renamed The Stroud.

He said in a statement: “I just wanted to let you know that we have finished all the pre-commencement issues and are starting formally on site next week.

“The work will take approximately six months but I am relieved and also excited to get going and get it open again.”

Chair of Stroud Chamber of Trade, Tony Davey said it was ‘excellent news’ for the town's economy. 

He said “It is excellent news that work on The Stroud is now set to start to bring this iconic building back into valuable use. 

“Not only will this be a returning asset to town, but our visitor economy will benefit with a new accommodation option within the town centre.

“The railway station is an important gateway into Stroud town and the adjoining district. 

“It’s regrettable that the Levelling Up Fund bid, which would also have refreshed the area around the hotel, was not successful, but we’re hopeful that alternative funding may be found to enable a project for further improvement in this area.”

The Imperial Hotel was built in 1863 by Stroud architect Benjamin Becknall, who also worked on Woodchester Mansion.

Many famous people have visited the hotel, including Queen Elizabeth, who was then Princess Elizabeth, in 1950 as part of a tour of Stroud.

The hotel, which was formerly a Thai restaurant, shut down in May 2020 and has remained closed ever since.

The iconic nineteenth-century building was listed as Grade II last year as part of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.

A spokesperson for The Stroud added: "We are really excited to announce that renovation of the Hotel has begun.

"Our priority is to revive the hotel, with beautiful and comfortable rooms for guests staying in Stroud and provide a restaurant and bar for guests coming to stay but also for the local community.

"It's a privilege for all of us working on the project to be part of the journey at this historic building and bring it back to life for those that loved it before and those yet to discover it.

"It's a special place and we aim to honour that.

"We know it has previously been an important hub in Stroud and as a nod to the historic value it holds we will be opening The Bucknall Bar."