A BUDGET hotel chain has opened its doors for the first time in Andover, creating 15 jobs.

Travelodge, based in Andover Business Park, officially opened its first hotel in the town on Thursday, February 2.

The Mayor of Test Valley, Cllr Karen Hamilton, cut the ribbon at the special champagne reception to mark the event.

She said: “I am very pleased to attend the official opening event of the new Travelodge hotel in Andover.

"The addition of Travelodge will have a positive impact on Andover by providing employment for local residents and affordable accommodation for visitors.”

As the company’s 545th hotel, Travelodge also announced that Hampshire is a key growth area for the business and that it was looking for a further seven new hotel sites in Winchester, Portsmouth, Southsea, Gosport, Fareham, Hedge End and Lymington.

The £4 million investment created 15 new jobs within the local community.

Micael Rodrigues, hotel manager, Andover Travelodge, said: “I am thrilled to be managing the town’s first Travelodge hotel.

“I have created a brilliant team who are passionate like me about delivering great customer service.

"I am looking forward to developing my team and helping them to climb the career ladder, like I have done at Travelodge.

“Our Andover Travelodge has got off to a flying start.

“This is great news for the local economy, as our research shows that annually Travelodge customers will spend over £2 million with local businesses during their stay with us.”

The 76-room hotel with on-site parking has been styled in the company’s new contemporary brand design.

All rooms feature the new luxurious king size Travelodge Dreamer Beds and family rooms include individual beds for the children or for sharing adults.

All rooms will also include an ensuite with power shower, flat screen TV with free digital channels , free tea and coffee-making facilities and Wifi.

Bryn Taylor, Travelodge regional director, said: “I am honoured to officially open our first Travelodge hotel in Andover, and to welcome our new colleagues to the company.

“As we look to the future, Hampshire is a key growth area for Travelodge.

"The Hampshire economy is growing at pace and with increasing visitor numbers to the area, there is still a shortage of good quality accommodation at a great value price.

“This expansion will boost Travelodge’s portfolio to 25 hotels in Hampshire and create an additional 200 new jobs.”