On Thursday, it was confirmed by Bespoke Hotels, operators of the Chester Grosvenor, that the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in the building will lead to a closure by September 30.
However, a spokesman for the Grosvenor Estate, owned by the Duke of Westminster and owns the hotel’s freehold, confirmed that it will aim for a new operator after major refurbishment work.
They said: “We are sorry to acknowledge that Bespoke Hotels has taken the decision to cease operating the hotel following its summer closure, and for the impact this will have on those whose roles may be affected.
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“Our priority now is to ensure the long-term future of the hotel given its importance to Chester.
“As an organisation steeped in the history of the city and that is deeply committed to its long-term success, we are developing plans for a major refurbishment supported by significant investment and the appointment of a new operator.
“The refurbishment will protect the future of Cheshire’s only five-star large hotel, strengthening Chester’s tourism and hospitality economy.”
The Estate’s announcement comes after Bespoke Hotels announced the closure of its operation at the Chester Grosvenor.
A spokesman said: “Following the recent discovery of RAAC above the function suites, the scale and complexity of the works required to put a long-term solution in place, alongside necessary refurbishment works, we have taken the very difficult decision to cease operating The Chester Grosvenor.
“As a result, it is our intention to close the hotel on September 30, 2026.
“Our immediate focus is on supporting our colleagues in the weeks ahead.
“We closed our conference suites after the discovery of RAAC during recent surveys.
“The safety of our guests and colleagues is of the utmost importance, and the affected area will remain closed as a precaution.
“All other public areas of the hotel, as well as the car park, are unaffected and continue to operate as normal.”