Hythe Imperial Hotel revamp revealed in CGI pictures which show new pool and private lounge
12:21, 02 October 2019
updated: 12:27, 02 October 2019
Ambitious plans to expand a historic seafront hotel include an outdoor swimming pool, jacuzzi and members-only private lounge.
Planning permission is being sought to build a modern-looking extension next to the Hythe Imperial Hotel which would house new spa and leisure facilities.
Artist impressions of the proposals reveal a glass-fronted two-storey building, covered in foliage, sitting to the left of the existing 92-bed hotel, along Princes Parade.
If given the go-ahead, the new-build will allow space for 10 additional bedrooms and a new bridal dressing room.
Updated treatment rooms for the spa are also planned, including a manicure and pedicure room, a relaxation room and seven spa treatment rooms, two of which will be double rooms with en-suite facilities.
The project will also create new spin and aerobics studios, a separate gym changing room and a 40-machine gymnasium complete with an outdoor swimming pool with jacuzzi.
This will all be topped off with an all new leisure club members private lounge with access to a new Japanese gardens.
The documents have been submitted by GSE Group, owners of the popular hotel, as well as the Marquis of Granby in Alkham, near Dover.
Bosses hope the project will transform the 4-star hotel into a ‘destination resort’.
Design proposals have been developed by Guy Hollaway Architects, which is already behind a number of new builds in the county such as the new cinema in Elwick Place, Ashford, and the one-of-a-kind skate park being developed in Folkestone.
The designs have been put together to complement the ‘existing grandeur’ of the Imperial as well as provide ‘improved access for all and enhanced landscaping’.
Darrell Healey, GSE group chairman, said: “We want to enhance the experiences for our guests to make their time with us even more unforgettable.”
Nick Gauntlett, executive director of the Hythe Imperial Hotel, added: "We are very excited about the potential of this new addition. It is in keeping with our vision for the hotel to become a destination resort where everyone is welcomed."
The Hythe Imperial already has a golf course, spa and leisure facilities and Kent’s only Moet & Chandon Champagne Bar.
It has recently undergone a multi-million pound facelift, which saw both bedrooms and hotel amenities refurbished.
The application was submitted on September 13 but it is not known when it is due to go before Folkestone and Hythe District Council’s planning committee.