By Carmelo Garcia – Local Democracy Reporter
Superdry founder Julian Dunkerton has raised concerns an iconic Cheltenham town centre hotel which is up for sale is “riddled with asbestos”.
The landmark four-star 84-room Queens Hotel in the Promenade is owned by Sutton Hotel Collection.
The presence of asbestos at the grade II*-listed building which overlooks Imperial Square is “entirely normal” and poses no risk to visitors, guests and staff, according to hotel representatives.
Julian Dunkerton mentioned the asbestos at the Queens Hotel as councillors considered his plans for No 131 Promenade, the luxury boutique hotel and restaurant across the road.
He made the comments as he spoke of the difficulties the hospitality trade the spa town is facing at a recent planning committee.
“We have to be honest about where we are and about the town,” Mr Dunkerton said in the meeting on February 13.
“The Queens is up for sale. It can’t find a buyer.
“Hasn’t had any investment for years and is riddled with asbestos. The hospitality industry is in absolute turmoil.”
Hotel representatives said last year they have taken substantial care of the buildinging since acquiring it in 2017.
And a spokesperson for The Queens Hotel said this week that the small amount of asbestos is in controlled areas and poses no risk to guests, staff, or visitors.
They said the presence of asbestos is entirely normal for a building of its age and it is strictly managed in full compliance with all legal and safety requirements.
“The health, safety, and well-being of our guests, employees, and the broader community remain The Queens Hotel’s unwavering priority,” a spokesperson for The Queens Hotel said.
“We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety, transparency, and regulatory compliance across all aspects of our operations.
“Like many historic properties, The Queens Hotel contains a small amount of managed asbestos in designated areas.
“This is entirely normal for a building of its age and is strictly managed in full compliance with all legal and safety requirements.
“Our asbestos management plan includes an up-to-date register, regular inspections, and rigorous monitoring by accredited specialists to ensure ongoing safety.
“The presence of asbestos in these controlled areas poses no risk to guests, staff, or visitors.
“Any necessary asbestos-related work, including removal or encapsulation, is performed under controlled conditions by certified specialists, adhering to the highest industry and legal standards.
“These routine procedures do not impact the hotel’s daily operations or long-term future.
“The Queens Hotel remains a safe, welcoming, and fully compliant establishment, committed to upholding the highest standards of operational excellence.”