Hotel Victoria in Newquay buyer says what it is going to do with it

A developer has confirmed it has purchased a historic hotel on Cornwall's seafront after its sudden closure was confirmed this week. Hotel Victoria, in Newquay, shut its doors as did an onsite nightclub and restaurant with the pub closing at the end of this week.

The iconic hotel on East Street shut down after more than 100 years in operation alongside its neighbouring nightclub, Berties. Its previous owners decided to close prior to completing the sale with property development and investment company, Nicolas James Group.

The Southampton-based company has now confirmed it has "exchanged contracts" following its closure amid staff being made redundant. Around 60 are reportedly going through the process but the new owners plan to retain it as a hotel, albeit after extensive renovations.

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The developer has confirmed it intends to submit redevelopment plans "in due course" although intends for the hotel to remain part of Newquay's hospitality scene. It said it plans to "breathe new life into the site" and to "restore the hotel to its former glory".

In a statement, it said: "Nicolas James Group has successfully exchanged contracts to purchase Hotel Victoria in Newquay, Cornwall. The group plans to breathe new life into the site through substantial investment and redevelopment, with plans to be submitted in due course.

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"Nicolas James Group, known for its expertise in the hospitality sector, has a proven track record of acquiring and transforming iconic coastal properties. Recognising Hotel Victoria's rich heritage and potential, the group will leverage its experience and investment to restore the hotel to its former glory, as a cornerstone of Newquay's vibrant hospitality scene."

It confirmed that more details of plans for the site will be available by spring 2025, calling it "a unique opportunity to revitalise a cherished landmark in Newquay".

The spokesperson adds: "We are excited to have exchanged contracts and look forward to sharing our vision for the hotel's future." It also confirmed the decision to close before the completion of the sale was due to longstanding trading difficulties and that the closure was regrettable but necessary given the scale of renovation required."

Nicolas James Group has been working on a variety of projects for some 30 years from residential buildings to hospitality and care schemes. The sale of the Victoria Hotel includes Bertie's Nightclub, Irish pub Bertie O'Flannigan's and Mexican restaurant Senor Dick's.