New owners vow to restore glory of Shrewsbury's Lion Hotel
The new owners of Shrewsbury's historic Lion Hotel have revealed plans for a full refurbishment as part of pledge "to restore its glorious past".
The 59-bedroom Grade I listed hotel has been purchased by a Thai investment firm, which says it is also looking to market Shrewsbury as a holiday destination to the Asian market.
Sanjay Singh, managing director of the Fico Corporation, said they would be looking to renovate the hotel's 59 rooms and public areas.
He said: "We are very pleased with this acquisition. As a heritage Grade I listed property the hotel has a very impressive history and it is our desire to refurbish the property over next few months and restore Lion Hotel to its glorious past."
The future of the hotel has been uncertain since it was put up for sale in 2011 with a price tag of £2.95 million. That was later reduced to £2.495m.
The 16th century Wyle Cop hotel is said to be where Charles Darwin stayed on the eve of departing on HMS Beagle for the voyage which would eventually see him produce "On the Origin of Species".
Mr Singh said he believed the region would appeal to potential tourists and customers from Asia.
He said: "We will work with our Asian contacts and promote the destination in this region."
Gavin Wright, director at Christie's, which handled the sale, said: "We are delighted to have secured a sale with an investor who is keen to keep the Lion Hotel operational and refurbish the property."
