by Andy Gray
agray@thekmgroup.co.uk

The go-ahead has been given for the opening of a major chain hotel in Maidstone town centre.

The 100-bedroom Premier Inn could create up to 40 jobs when it opens in London Road.

It will be based at London House, the old Maidstone council HQ which has stood empty since the authority relocated to its current premises in King Street in 2009.

It will become the second big-name hotel in town after Travelodge opened in St Peter’s Street in January 2010.

Cllr David Pickett, who represents Bridge ward, said it was a positive move for Maidstone.

He said: “This is good news.

"We need more hotels in Maidstone as it increases the portfolio we’re able to offer businesses and tourists.

"Premier is a national brand and should bring extra clientele to town.”

The hotel was approved at a meeting of council planners.

The four-storey building covers a 2,757m sq area with room for 131 parking spaces.

But the news received a lukewarm welcome from nearby bed and breakfast owners.

Ros Probyn, 59, who runs the two-bedroom Rocky Hill House b&b, which is 200 yards from the new hotel, said: “It’s certainly going to create a challenge for businesses in the area.

"Owners who don't have a good customer base might struggle because some people prefer to go for the brand names rather than take a chance on lesser-known hotels.”