An eyesore building in Bath city centre looks set to be transformed after a hotel firm confirmed a deal had been signed to buy the site.
Apex Hotels will demolish the existing office block on the corner of James Street West and Charles Street to make way for a new 177 bedroom full service hotel with conference facilities.
In total the development of the site will cost £35 million.
"This is a rare and exciting growth opportunity for Apex to add to our portfolio and have presence in a popular Unesco World Heritage Site" said Norman Springford, chairman of Apex Hotels. "Our properties have developed a great reputation and we hope to emulate this with the opening of our property in Bath"
Work to demolish the current building - a vacant office block - will begin later this year, with the construction of the new hotel scheduled to begin in May 2015 with an estimated opening date of Autumn 2016.
I S Architects, based in Edinburgh, have been appointed to oversee the development project.
"Bath is a beautiful city with world class attractions, festivals and events that attract visitors all year round. We are looking forward to getting to know and working with new partners within the local community" said Angela Vickers, managing director of Apex Hotels.
