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The Exchange Hotel in Cardiff Bay has got off to a “great start”, despite being initially opposed by the local community.
The hotel was once The Coal Exchange building, and considered a significant historical structure which marked a time when Cardiff was at the centre of the coal trade.
Following its closure in 1958, the building was used for banquets, concerts and dinners. It closed again in 2013 and was in a state of “rot” before Signature Living Group proposed to restore it.
In 2016, the hotel group put forward £40m plans to convert the property into a 200-room luxury hotel. It was initially opposed by conservation group, the Victorian Society, who were worried that the developers would not retain the building’s structure.The group urged the Cardiff council to block the plans for development.
Campaign group Save The Coal Exchange were said to be “excited” about the renovation, but wished for development on the 18-month project to “start immediately, to stop further degradation.”
Since its opening in May, the hotel has received positive reviews on TripAdvisor and booking.com with reviews describing the hotel as “amazing”.
Exchange Hotel owner and Signature Living founder Lawrence Kenwright said: “Our staff in Cardiff have really made guests at the Exchange Hotel feel welcome, and despite the building’s feeling of grandeur it’s a friendly place anyone can visit.
“Early reviews have been brilliant, and it’s hard to believe that just a year ago we faced such vociferous opposition.
“We always look to provide guests with a five-star stay, so we appreciate all feedback. It helps us continue to improve our guest experience and make sure all visitors to Cardiff leave the city wanting to come back.”
