Leisure group expands with hotel purchase

A leisure group which runs a number of hotels in Blackpool has expanded its operations with a new purchase, advised by Napthens solicitors.

Blackpool Promotions, owned by entrepreneur Tony Banks and established in 1983, operates The Ruskin Hotel on Albert Road in the town, along with venues including the Royal Carlton and Royal Seabank.

Acquired by Tony in May 2017, the popular 3-star venue close to Central Pier, has 71 en-suite rooms. Since its purchase, the hotel has been refurbished, and as part of this overhaul Blackpool Promotions has now acquired the property next door, the derelict former Grosvenor Hotel.

The hotel will now undergo a major, six-figure refurbishment which will see its current 47 bedrooms transformed to 30 suites to become part of The Ruskin Hotel.

The work is due to be complete in around six months, and – subject to planning permission – will include a new cabaret venue to seat 250 people and a basement spa complex.

Tony, who also owns businesses in the property and construction sector, was advised by Martin Long, partner in the Commercial Property team at Napthens solicitors and head of the regional law firm’s Blackpool office.

Martin said: “The former Grosvenor Hotel has been derelict for some time and it’s great to see it being given a new chance for success in this way.”

Tony added: “The leisure sector in Blackpool is very strong, and we continue to see a real opportunity to develop a quality offering for visitors to the town and this investment is further commitment by Blackpool Promotions to the area.

“This is a great spot for a hotel, close the seafront and a range of attractions, and when the Grosvenor came on the market we knew it could really bolster our offering at The Ruskin. “We have some exciting plans in the pipeline and can’t wait to unveil them in a few months’ time.”