Extensive building work to create a new hotel in Wimbledon’s Broadway could start before the year is out, according to developers.

The proposed work will see three floors demolished and eight new floors added to the property at 153-161 the Broadway – a former job centre, which has been unoccupied for the last three years.

Hotel companies interested in the lease include Travelodge, Ibis and Holiday Inn – but some residents have criticised the plans.

Councillor Andrew Judge said there was a pressing need to provide more hotels and larger offices in Wimbledon, which he argued should take advantage of the internationally recognised SW19 brand.

Property manager Mustak Ibrahim, from developers Crown Properties, said: “We will take all valid complaints from residents into account but I don’t think there have been any.

“We are bringing a redundant building in the town centre back into use.”

Travelodge spokesman Nick Dines said: “We are very keen to come to Wimbledon.

"There is a current lack of affordable, budget hotels in the area and it has great transport links.

“A budget hotel will help the community because our customers will eat out, while in a fancy five-star hotel people tend to stay in and use the spa.”

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