The owners of the Adelphi Hotel have announced a “new phase of development”, including plans for a multi-million pound property refurbishment programme, as well as the appointment of a new board of directors. Britannia Hotels (BH) purchased the Adelphi Hotel in 1982, but over recent years, it has been subject to much criticism and controversy.
Britannia Named Worst Hotel Chain for 12th Year
This was reflected once again in November last year, when Britannia was named the UK's worst hotel chain - for the 12th year running. In 2021, the ECHO reported on a statement from Liverpool MP Kim Johnson in 2022, who called on BH to sell off the building, saying at the time: "As a destination city, I think the Adelphi used to be a flagship hotel, now I think it is a blight on our city. It has seen a significant decline over the years and I think the ownership has let it decline, it could be such an amazing hotel for the city. For us as a city it is also about the reputational damage this does to the city."
Legal Case and Health and Safety Charges
Earlier this week, the ECHO reported on an ongoing legal case involving Britannia Hotel Ltd, which will now face a trial after a 21-year-old woman died after being crushed by a falling wardrobe. Chloe Haynes was found dead in her room at the Lime Street site in 2022. Britannia Hotels Ltd has since been charged with a total of 20 health and safety offences under the names of two limited companies, in a prosecution brought by Liverpool City Council.
Pontins Southport Update
Britannia also owns Pontins Southport, which was closed down in January 2024, and after a period of much speculation and rumour, the company provided an update to the ECHO last week, confirming it had submitted plans to Sefton Council. It did not specify what those plans are, but said they would create a "positive long-term outcome" for the vacant holiday park.
New Board of Directors Appointed
Britannia released another update today (June 30), confirming the appointment of a new board, comprising of four new directors, all of whom already held senior positions at the group. The board now includes Simon Powell, Helen Rees, Prakash Sivarajan, and Paul Streets, the latter of whom has served as Britannia's general legal counsel three times. Responding to the announcement, Mr Street said: “Britannia Hotels has a proud heritage and unique place in the UK hospitality landscape. As we approach our 50th anniversary, the new board represents an important moment for the business - one that allows us to respect what has been built over many years, while bringing greater focus, clarity and ambition to how we operate going forward."
Future Plans: Refurbishment and Brand Refresh
The new board will be tasked with "changing guest and employee expectations", according to a statement released by Britannia, and "spearheading" a number of improvements across its portfolio. These are expected to include a multi-million pound property refurbishment programme, and a visual refresh of the Britannia Hotels brand identity.
