Former Acorn winner to head up new £20m hotel in York
Former Caterer and HotelkeeperAcorn winner Andrew Coney has been appointed general manager of a new, £20m hotel in York.
The Grand hotel and spa is being developed by Yorkshire-based hotel group Cedar Court, which has four hotels in the region, as its first five-star venue.
The former North-eastern Railway Company's (NERC) headquarters - a landmark building built in 1907 - is being converted to host the new operation, which is to be headed up by Coney as general manager.
Coney, who was has been a general manager for De Vere and at London's Cavendish hotel, comes from Guoman Hotels' The Tower in central London.
He spoke of his aspirations to make the Grand a five-star property, saying: "The NERC building was constructed during the golden age of the railways and, in creating The Grand, we intend to revive the glamour, panache and luxury of that era, with a contemporary twist and lavish modern-day comforts."
"This is an almost unique opportunity: a chance to open a new hotel in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, working for an organisation that is genuinely committed to principles of quality service. Our ambition is to create York's first 5-star hotel, and we will achieve that through meticulous attention to detail."
The property's facilities will include corporate and conference facilities such as five meeting rooms for up to 20 people, the directors room (once the chairman's office) which can accommodate up to 40, and a boardroom capable of hosting 120 guests.
A decking area overlooking the York wall will accommodate a marquee for 300, and a cocktail bar, restaurant and private dining rooms will provide a choice dining options.
The hotel's spa will tap into the luxury market, offering bespoke treatments, a sauna room, steam room, pool and gym.
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By Rosie Birkett
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