A family-owned hotel and wedding venue has officially opened the first phase of a £1.9 million expansion plan with a new 24-room wing.
Llechwen Hall, near Nelson, has more than doubled its capacity with the new wing. As part of the overall scheme, a spa, treatment rooms, and gym will open to guests in early 2020.
The original 17th century long house, which has 20 guest bedrooms, will undergo further refurbishment to four-star quality, while the period lounge bar will receive a “contemporary yet sympathetic” remodelling, with the current reception being removed to create a link directly into the new wing. The expansion will see up to 25 new jobs created.
The £1.9m project has been supported by a £409,000 grant from the Welsh Government through its Micro and Small Business Fund.
Amar Gor, Llechwen Hall’s owner and business development director, said: “Llechwen Hall’s success and ongoing development has always been thanks to a passionate and dedicated team.
“We could not be more proud to unveil the new guest rooms and facilities that celebrate our Welsh surroundings, heritage, hospitality, and producers. We’re dedicated to supporting our local community, and to encourage tourism to this beautiful region.
“Everyone at Llechwen is excited to embark on the next stage of its journey and ever-evolving history.”
The grant application was supported with work from Caerphilly County Borough Council’s tourism department.
Officially opening the new wing on August 5 was Caerphilly County Borough Mayor Julian Simmonds. Before cutting the ribbon he said: “Llechwen Hall is an active and highly-thought of member of Caerphilly Tourism Association and currently vice chair of the association.
“They have worked closely with the council’s rural development partnership Cwm a Mynydd for a number of years and have been a recipient of its Contribution to the Rural Economy award.”
He added: “The owners’ dedicated continuous investment over the past 11 years has supported the local economy by providing jobs, giving young people the opportunity to embark on a career in hospitality, and using local produce and products from local suppliers.”
Sally Walters, Caerphilly County Borough’s Tourism Marketing Officer, said: “There is a shortage of accommodation in the county borough – especially for group bookings – and this new extension will go towards addressing that need. We can advise tourism businesses on what funding is available and we would encourage those businesses to go for funding.”
One of the first guests staying at the hotel’s new wing were couple Anabel Wright and Paul McEvoy, who were visiting from their home in Florida.
Ms Wright said: “I am very impressed with the accommodation. The quality of the finish, the quality of the bed – which was so comfortable, the bathroom and the facilities. We decided to have an extra night.”
Since its purchase in 2008, the family-owned venue, which can accommodate weddings and conferences, has received continuous investment including the construction of a £350,000 garden marquee with a capacity for 300 guests and a £300,000 restaurant.