THE grand re-opening of an iconic Newquay hotel has been warmly welcomed by the community following its multi-million-pound makeover.

Newquay BID manager Mark Warren believes businesses in the town centre will see an “economic boost” following the unveiling of NICI Newquay in East Street, which was formally the Hotel Victoria.

Dozens of residents who been in to have a look around have also been full of praise for the major refurbishment being undertaken by the new owners, the Nicolas James Group.

Many have enjoyed a bite to eat in the hotel’s signature restaurant, Amalfi, which offers Italian-inspired dining.

A number of the 52 bedrooms are already being occupied by guests, the gym is open as well as the Capri function room.

Work is underway to finish off other parts of the hotel restoration such as the Portofino main function room, terrace and the spa, which will offer a pool, jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and seven treatment rooms.

The lawn area will offer yoga sessions and is due to stage weddings. Work is also being undertaken to restore the rare Victorian bathing lift.

Phase two of the restoration will see the area opposite on the hotel on other side of the Tram Track being staged in the summer of 2027, which will offer an outdoor pool, restaurant and a bar called Tucker Rocks.

Mr Warren was given a tour of the refurbished hotel by Jason Parry, the general manager of THE NICI Newquay.

Mr Warren said: “I'm excited about the economic boost the re-opening of the hotel will give that part of town.

“THE NICI Newquay is looking fabulous. They've got so much more to do, but they got the hotel open on time.

“Businesses have been saying to me that they're expecting some serious percentage growth on their turnovers following the opening.

“Properties that have been vacant for a while have now got people that are going to be moving into them in the near future.

“Something like the hotel re-opening has a huge impact on the area .

“I think East Street is going to really win from this. All too often hotels are on the outside the centre of a town.

“Not only will the refurbishment drive the hotel economically, it will also drive surrounding businesses in the town centre forward.

“It's a win-win for us.”

Mr Parry said: “There is always a risk when refurbishing an iconic building but the feedback has been wonderful.

“People have loved what we have done with the place especially the façade and the soft tones in the interior.

“A lot of people have been coming in to eat at the Amalfi restaurant. We had 90 on the opening day for dinner and 50 a day since.

“Newquay being busy works for everybody.

“THE NICI Newquay is here to be a part of the community. People can think about coming in for events and special occasions.

“We look at it as the Amalfi is a restaurant in a hotel rather than a hotel restaurant.

“I’m confident the hotel will do well.”