Superdry founder 'concerned' over asbestos hotel

Superdry co-founder Julian Dunkerton owns a Grade II listed hotel and bar across the road from Queens Hotel in Cheltenham

Superdry co-founder Julian Dunkerton has raised concerns that a Cheltenham hotel which is up for sale is "riddled with asbestos".

The four-star 84-room Queens Hotel in the Promenade is owned by Sutton Hotel Collection.

Mr Dunkerton made the claim as councillors considered his plans for No 131 Promenade, a luxury boutique hotel and restaurant across the road.

Queens Hotel representatives said the "small amount" of asbestos in controlled areas was "entirely normal" for a building of its age and posed no risk to guests and staff.

The Queens Hotel says it has an up-to-date asbestos management plan and is regularly monitored

"We have to be honest about where we are and about the town," Mr Dunkerton said in a meeting on 13 February.

"The Queens is up for sale. It can't find a buyer.

"Hasn't had any investment for years and is riddled with asbestos. The hospitality industry is in absolute turmoil."

Hotel representatives said last year they had taken substantial care of the buildinging since acquiring it in 2017.

A spokesperson for The Queens Hotel said this week that the small amount of asbestos is in controlled areas and poses no risk to guests, staff, or visitors.

'No risk'

They said the presence of asbestos was "entirely normal" for a building of its age and was strictly managed in full compliance with all legal and safety requirements.

"Like many historic properties, The Queens Hotel contains a small amount of managed asbestos in designated areas," the spokesperson said.

"This is entirely normal for a building of its age and is strictly managed in full compliance with all legal and safety requirements.

"Our asbestos management plan includes an up-to-date register, regular inspections, and rigorous monitoring by accredited specialists to ensure ongoing safety.

"The presence of asbestos in these controlled areas poses no risk to guests, staff, or visitors.

"Any necessary asbestos-related work, including removal or encapsulation, is performed under controlled conditions by certified specialists, adhering to the highest industry and legal standards."