Telford Southwater expansion: More than 40 jobs to be created at new Travelodge hotel and bar

A Travelodge hotel and an attached restaurant or bar, proposed as part of the next phase of work at Southwater Square in Telford Shopping Centre will create 12 full time and 29 part time jobs. The work is expected to be complete by spring next year.

The plans will also see a new public green space and events area made available to visitors.

Five full-time jobs are expected to be created at the hotel, with 14 part-time positions will be made available. The council is still in talks with companies to take over the restaurant and bar space, but the unit is expected to see seven full-time jobs created and 15 part-time.

The news comes just days after an artist’s impression of the proposed public space was made public.

Telford mayor Stephen Reynolds said it was a further example of Telford & Wrekin Council working to put the town on the map.

“I am sure it will be another great place for residents and visitors to spend time with friends and family,” he said.

“I’m fully in agreement with everything that they are doing at Southwater, and the plans for Southwater Square will further enhance it. I’m all for it.

He said: “Along with the development of the new bridge from the railway, this will only enhance the attractiveness of Telford for people around the West Midlands and further afield. Anything that’ll enhance the area and bring new people into Telford I’m for.

“Southwater is such an attractive place at night. The night-time economy is booming around there now, and this is only going to enhance it further.

“Southwater is exceptional. It’s always busy, and long may it remain so.”

Councillor Reynolds said that it was a testament to all the work that has gone into the Southwater project over the years, adding: “The work that the council and developers have done regarding Southwater has put Telford on the map. This is the reason why a lot of companies are now coming to the town.

“It’s a testament to their hard work over the last few years regarding the development of Southwater along with the Telford Shopping Centre management.”

Telford & Wrekin Council unveiled its plans this week, which they say were devised after a consultation with more than 600 residents last summer.

Work on the area was set to begin this week and is expected to continue until spring next year.

The site will be boarded up with hoardings being erected shortly.

These will feature images of what is to be built as well as messages celebrating Telford’s 50th anniversary in 2018.