Last week, Plymouth received some sad news: the Duke of Cornwall, a brilliant hotel, announced its closure. This is a blow to the city and to all the hotel’s staff who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.

However, action is being taken to reduce the negative impact of the Duke’s closure.

Luke has spoken to Plymouth City Council and together they’re working to support the Duke of Cornwall’s staff in finding new employment.

Luke does not support the Duke of Cornwall building being turned into luxury flats. Plymouth needs more hotels as, when lockdown restrictions ease, it is home to some fantastic attractions that will attract many tourists to the area.

Given that it is the leaseholder business that has folded, causing the Duke of Cornwall’s closure, finding a new business to run the hotel should be straightforward. That way, the building will not become a set of luxury flats and Plymouth will not have lost a key business.

Commenting on the matter, Luke said:

With international travel increasingly uncertain I am expecting more people to holiday in the UK this summer if restrictions allow. Having a good hotel offering is vital for that as having people stay over night hugely increases tourist spend in our city and creates and sustains local jobs. I know the city council and Destination Plymouth are working with the owners and former staff of the Duke of Cornwall. I cannot predict when more news on any future will be announced but I know that there is a lot of work happening here and they’ll be sharing updates when they can.

 

I know this old building is in the hearts of many people in Plymouth and I believe there will be a future hotel in this wonderful building again. In the meantime, I hope all the staff find new employment soon.