TRAVELODGE has applied to turn the former Christchurch Medical Centre into a 68-bedroom hotel.

The application submitted on behalf of the hotel chain by RREEF, the owners of the centre and Saxon Square shopping centre would see the centre transformed into a hotel, with overnight parking available in Saxon Square.

Plans also include the construction of a new entrance foyer, reception and back-up facilities at ground level, which would involve the demolition of one small shop unit.

The proposal also states “elevational improvements” would be required on the building, which stands on a key town centre site.

The hotel will not contain a restaurant and will follow the hotel chain’s “vend-only” option.

Formerly a health centre, the building has been empty since 1989 but still has a lease in place, with rent, rates and service charges allegedly totalling £450,000 paid to date.

It was recently cited in an investigation by Sky News as one of the worst unused buildings in the country for wasted Department of Health rent.

Years of marketing the building as office space proved unsuccessful due to the out-of-date facilities.

A statement from Crowther Architects Associates, on behalf of RREEF said there has been no interest in the space from other office users, despite “strenuous efforts by RREEF to re-let the space.”

The development, if approved by Christchurch Borough Council, could create 16 jobs in the town – six full-time and 10 part-time – for local people, including the management positions.

The statement said the limited service nature of the hotel would mean that guests would tend to use existing facilities within the town centre, helping to support the local economy.

And based on 75 per cent occupancy, it is proposed the hotel could generate around £670,000 additional spending in the borough.