A leading Huddersfield hotel has reported a “very positive upturn in revenue following a six-figure facelift.
The Cedar Court Hotel at Ainley Top spent £150,000 refurbishing bedrooms and meeting rooms as well as redecorating and updating the soft furnishings in the President and Emley Suites.
General manager Kirsti Playdon said the hotel had seen a 4.5% increase in room occupancy – in part due to the higher standard of facilities which had encouraged more repeat business particularly from corporate clients.
With the large function rooms completed in time for the busy Christmas party season, Kirsti said bookings were well ahead of last year.
She said: “The launch of the new restaurant Grill 54 in the summer has also been a big success, particularly with our hotel guests.
“However, we are keen to reach out to local people too and we are beginning to see more and more familiar faces calling in now they’ve discovered the good value food and friendly, local staff.”
In the leisure club, which is open to both members and hotel guests, new SportsArt eco power gym equipment has been installed. The state of the art resistance and strength equipment delivers outstanding results has also cut energy costs.
Commenting on the gym, Kirsti said: “Since installing this new equipment, membership numbers have grown steadily. It’s easy to use and delivers great results.”
Kirsti, who joined the hotel two-and-a-half years ago, said: “Our corporate business is riding high with a healthy mix from both local and national companies, so that’s a good sign for the region as a whole.
“With the economy more buoyant, the outlook is positive and as a result of continued strong sales I’ve been able to recruit two additional members of staff.
“This is good for the local area as we employ local people, get involved with local events and, where possible, we buy locally.
“At the same time, everything we’re doing is aimed at raising the bar on standards.”
The Cedar Court Hotel at Ainley Top is part of the independent Yorkshire Cedar Court Hotel group which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary since its first hotel opened in Wakefield. Its two othe hotels are at Harrogate and Bradford.
A total of £1m has been spent on refurbishments across the group.
