Cheltenham’s Municipal Offices could become a 125-room luxury spa hotel. 

The Grade II* listed current home to Cheltenham Borough Council has been on sale since the end of last year.

On May 22, an ‘exclusivity agreement’ begun for a three-month period of due diligence after what the council described as a thorough marketing and bidding process, which will include evaluating the proposals.

The preferred bid sets out a proposal to transform the building into a vibrant, luxury brand hotel, offering 125 rooms, a spa, event, banqueting and conference space.

It is described as being a hotel which is a destination for locals and travellers alike, a versatile offering for business, adventures, culture and relaxation.

The bid has been submitted by an international team who has previously delivered high end hotels across Europe.

Heading up the team, Mario San Jacinto of Almiranta Capital Ltd said: ‘’We are incredibly pleased to have reached this stage and will continue to remain focused on bringing our proposals forward.

“We have assembled a truly world-class delivery team, comprising a commanding combination of both local and international real estate experts. ’Our portfolio includes the delivery of international hotels, as well as the refurbishment and management of many regency buildings. We have created a vision that will transform the Municipal Offices, recognised as a landmark heritage building, into a prized asset for Cheltenham as the Festival Town and beyond.

‘’We recognise the building is at the heart of the town and understand that in addition to the sale of the building, ensuring final delivery of the project will also be of primary importance to the borough council and all those who have an interest in this much-loved building.

‘’What remains important in our proposal is the economic and civic pride boost that our scheme will offer to Cheltenham and the region. We want to create a place where visitors and local people will come together socially and for business, which is well connected to all that Cheltenham and the Cotswolds have to offer.’’

Councillor Rowena Hay, leader for Cheltenham Borough Council said: ‘’We are now entering a period of due diligence and it’s vital that throughout these next few months, we ensure that the proposals will deliver against our aspirations and for the economic, environmental and cultural benefits of the town. At every stage, we have committed to ensuring that the sale will bring benefit to Cheltenham, and retain the heritage of this magnificent building, which is, and will continue to be, at the very heart of our town centre. ~

‘’The proposals to transform the offices into a luxury hotel, I feel are incredibly positive for the town centre and county as a whole. If this bid is successful, we will see a new lease of life for the building and a space which can be used and loved by visitors, residents, community groups and businesses. This is what I feel is so right about the scheme – it’s about bringing people together, and creating a vibrancy and positive change in this part of our town centre.’’

The council is dedicated to working alongside the bidder, towards delivery of this opportunity.

Future steps involve planning and deal completion, with the potential buyers keen to engage with local, regional, national and international stakeholders.

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