New entry in Premier's league at Gateway Plaza

The 110-bed Premier Inn Hotel and Table Table Restaurant, at Gateway Plaza, in Barnsley, are due to open on April 6 after hospitality group Whitbread took control of the building.

Browns Construction Group built the Premier Inn, which is the town centre's first purpose-built budget hotel. The hotel and restaurant have created more than 50 jobs.

Gateway Plaza, which is being developed by Quest Property and Landmark Development Projects, already includes a 96,000 sq ft office building, 548-space car park and NHS health centre.

The final phase will also see the completion of the 188 apartments, which form the residential element of the scheme.

Chris Hanson, general manager for the Table Table and Barnsley Central Premier Inn, said: "We had a fantastic response to our recruitment drive with around 4,000 applications for the 50 positions. We are confident that we have recruited a strong, skilled team and will now be undertaking full training in the run up to the official opening. We are extremely proud of our new operation and look forward to welcoming guests to the brand new hotel and restaurant."

Matthew Stephens, development manager for Quest Property, added: "Our focus now is on the completion of the final phase of residential and we are looking forward to welcoming yet more tenants to the scheme in forthcoming weeks and months."