Hotel purchase is ‘vote of confidence’ in Bournemouth

The new owners of a prominent Bournemouth hotel say the purchase is a ‘vote of confidence’ in the resort.

The Dorset Hotel Limited has acquired Hotel Collingwood on the West Cliff from the Clarke family for a seven figure sum.

Directors Eytan and Michelle Krips are now planning a major upgrade at the three star hotel, beginning with the installation of a state of the art heating system costing up to £100,000.

They are also creating an extra two jobs as well as investing in further training for the existing 30-strong workforce.

Eytan, who previously owned a luxury care home in Lyme Regis, said the 53-bedroom hotel enjoyed a large and loyal clientele.

He added: “Bournemouth is a great destination town and the current investment in new retail and leisure facilities presents fantastic opportunities for hotels such as the Collingwood.

“It’s fair to say that our purchase is not just a vote of confidence in the resort but also the future of independent hotels.

“Apart from upgrading facilities we will be looking to source as many Dorset ingredients and drinks as possible so that our guests get a real taste and flavour of this beautiful county.”

Ellis Jones Solicitors acted as legal advisers for the purchase of Hotel Collingwood with Neil Cook, Head of Business Services, handling the deal.

Eytan said: “It was a complex and demanding transaction and Neil, and his team, did an excellent job. Neil’s previous business experience proved particularly useful.”

He added that The Dorset Hotel Limited would be interested in acquiring similar, high quality hotels.

“If the right opportunity came along we would certainly look at it,” he said.