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11 July 2019 | Comment | Article by Gerallt Jones

Hugh James advises Celtic Manor Resort on new hotel acquisition


A team of lawyers from Hugh James’ hospitality and leisure team, led by Jon Fernandez Lewis, has advised long-standing client Celtic Manor Resort on its acquisition of a 129-bed hotel close to the M4.

The Celtic Manor Collection, including the renowned Celtic Manor Resort Hotel and the Coldra Court Hotel just off junction 24 of the M4, now also includes the former Hampton by Hilton at Magor and will be its first Tŷ Hotel.

Its new Tŷ Hotel brand targets people staying one or two nights who need a comfortable and functional place to stay if they are attending local events such as stadium concerts, sporting events and conferences.

Hugh James’s dedicated hospitality and leisure (H&L) team has extensive experience in the H&L sector having advised Celtic Manor on its other acquisitions including the Newbridge on Usk and Coldra Court hotel deals.

Hugh James also advised on Celtic Manor’s joint venture with the Welsh Government on the landmark deal to build the magnificent £83.7m International Convention Centre Wales (ICC Wales) adjacent to its main resort hotel.

Celtic Manor Resort Vice-President, Finance and Support, Mark Colcomb said:

“The acquisition of the former Hampton by Hilton at Magor represents a new departure for the Celtic Collection as the first mid-range hotel to be added to our portfolio and we are very excited to be launching the new Tŷ Hotel brand. An expansion of this nature is not a step we take lightly and Jon and the team at Hugh James were once again a huge support in helping us through the process to secure this important acquisition as we continue to grow the business. We have a long-standing relationship with Hugh James and the team there are always prepared to act promptly and effectively on our behalf.”

Jon Fernandez Lewis said: “It’s been fantastic to be part of the Celtic Manor journey and development over many years and advise on all its landmark deals and major events hosted at the resort. Diversifying its portfolio with the Ty Hotels concept is a natural step for them in building the range from five star luxury to lower-priced family friendly hotels. We wish them every success with this new project and look forward to supporting them on future developments.”

Most recently the H&L team has advised the Welsh Rugby Union on its joint venture with Rightacres property which will transform two of Cardiff’s most iconic buildings into a luxury hotel, situated on Westgate Street in the city centre.

Click here to read the full story.

Click here to read more about Hugh James’s H&L experience.

Author bio

Gerallt is a partner and head of the corporate and commercial team. Since joining Hugh James in 2005, Gerallt has led the team to be a leading player within the corporate and commercial market, advising clients including the Welsh Government, Princes Gate Water and the Development Bank of Wales.

Gerallt also has particular expertise in the sport and food & drink sectors, leading Hugh James’s relationships with clients in these sectors including the Welsh Rugby Union and Braces Bakery.

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