WORK is nearing completion on an extension to a recently regenerated hotel and bistro complex in the centre of Colchester.

The North Hill Hotel was opened under its present identity by local businessman Rob Brown in December 2008, following extensive refurbishment.

A key part of its success over the past two years has been its Green Room bistro, which specialises in local produce and benefits from the hotel’s location just a few minutes walk from the town’s High Street.

At present, the hotel side of the business has 13 rooms (11 doubles and two singles) but the �250,000 project currently in progress to convert buildings at the rear of the property – including what is thought to be one of the oldest buildings in the town – will add a further our double bedrooms, together with a further 30 restaurant covers.

Mr Brown, who originally trained in the hotel industry, said: “Trade since we opened towards the end of 2008 has been really strong and encouraging. We are fortunate that both the hotel and dining side of the business complement each other.

“The bistro is very popular and the demand it generates has helped lead the expansion plans. By adding another 30 covers we are greatly enhancing our ability to satisfy this demand.

“Our use of predominantly local produce is very appealing to our diners, and really captures the ethos of our operationm,” he added.

“ We are consistently looking to provide comfort and the best local offering we can, building on the charm of one of the country’s oldest towns, which appeals to both tourists and local residents alike. With the building work nearly completed, 2011 looks like being another exciting year for us.”

Funding to support the expansion has been provided by hotel’s new banking partner, NatWest, including a loan to cover the cost of the current building work as well as an increase to the debt facility provided by its previous bank.

Peter Beer, relationship director for commercial banking at NatWest in Colchester said: “Trading at the hotel and the bistro has exceeded expectations and, set against the backdrop of the recession, this is testimony to the business acumen of Rob and his team.

“The additional revenue streams this extension should provide will help to ensure future growth for both the hotel and the bistro,” he added.

n The directors of the hotel have also recently acquired The Warehouse, a contemporary steak house, in Colchester town centre.