MP frustrated with Premier Inn

David Reed criticised the state of Exmouth building

A Devon MP has urged Premier Inn to “get a grip” over the state of the appearance of one of their hotel’s in a prime location in his constituency.

David Reed has said plenty of Exmouth residents have contacted him to complain about how the building on the seafront looks.

“The building gives off completely the wrong impression to visitors arriving at the seafront,” he said.

“It’s a prominent site in one of the busiest parts of town, and right now it’s not good enough.

“Exmouth is a town that takes pride in its appearance and in giving people a proper welcome. I’ve asked Whitbread to get a grip of the situation and let me know what they’re doing to sort it out.”

Mr Reed has written to Dominic Paul, the chief executive of Whitbread, the listed company that owns Premier Inn.

The MP said the building was covered in a mesh linked to repair works, adding that there were “clear signs of algae and neglect”.

“The prominent location is one of the first things visitors see when they arrive at the seafront,” he said.

“Exmouth is a town that prides itself on its stunning coastline and warm welcome for tourists and families.

“Unfortunately, the current condition of the Premier Inn building sends the wrong message to those visiting our town and is a source of growing frustration among local people.”

He acknowledged buildings may “periodically undergo works or experience delays” but urged the firm to “take swift steps to improve the exterior of the site and ensure it is properly maintained”.

In a rapid response to the MP, the hotel firm said it took the appearance and upkeep of its hotels – particularly those in prominent locations – “extremely seriously”.

“Like you, we want Exmouth to thrive as a year-round destination, and we recognise that the current condition of the hotel does not reflect the high standards we set for our estate,” the firm said.

It added a “number of construction defects, including the discolouration” and water ingress had caused some damage to the timber frame.

“I want to reassure you that the building remains structurally sounds and safe for guests and staff, and the quality of the guest experience inside the hotel has not been compromised,” it added.

“As you can imagine, we have been working to resolve this issue with the original contractor and while we are pushing to remediate this hotel as quickly as possible, we have had to take care to identify the correct course of action.”

The firm said it hoped to begin remedial works with a local contractor in September, following the peak summer season so as to minimise disruption for visitors.