MAJOR £20-million plans have been unveiled to redevelop an iconic Newquay hotel complex and family run pub.

The Nicolas James Group invited people to view its proposals to transform the Hotel Victoria into a four-to-five-star hotel.

The hotelier plans to knockdown the Bertie O'Flannigan's pub and Berties night club, Señor Dicks Mexican Restaurant as well as the Griffin Inn and create up to 77 high-quality new apartments on the site around the hotel.

The Nicolas James Group states income from the new homes is necessary to enable the significant proposed investment in the hotel.

There would be a complete overhaul of all guest rooms, suites, and public areas, incorporating “contemporary design, high-end finishes, and state-of-the-art amenities.”

Enhanced guest facilities and upgraded facilities would include a luxurious spa and wellness centre, modern fitness facilities, multiple dining options, from casual to fine dining, elegant bars and lounges, a new swimming pool and refurbishing the lift down to the beach from all floors.

The Hotel Victoria closed its doors in November 2024, and it is envisaged works will start on site in early 2026 if planning approval is received. It is expected the hotel will employ in excess of 100 people when it re-opens.

Dozens of residents attended the public consultation held at the Hotel Victoria on Monday to view and give feedback on the redevelopment plans, which received a mixed response. People said they are in favour of the hotel being improved but are against the number of apartments being built.

Julie Hazell said: “I think the redevelopment is good for that end of town. It will bring people into Newquay who will spend money.”

Mayor Cllr Drew Creek added: “I’m really keen to see the area being regenerated. Hotel Victoria is one of the original hotels, which dates back to late 19th century and GWR holidays to Newquay.

“It is good to see the hotel being improved and clearly housing appears to be paying for the renovation. I have questions about whether this is the right kind of housing that Newquay needs. It does not look affordable or family orientated. It also appears that Dinard Garden would be overlooked and in the shade.”

Caroline Bourne said: “The hotel being redeveloped is very good but anything to do with the housing is bad. I have lived in Newquay all my life and there are already too many houses being built in the town. It is overrun with traffic and there are no facilities for residents.”

Linda Kenna said: “I’m not happy about the plans. These boxes proposed to be built will take away the character of Newquay.”

Drew Wrintmore, the construction director for the Nicolas James Group, said: “We bought the hotel after it closed in October last year.

“Our intention is to redevelop the property. We will be investing in excess of £20-million to create a 4/5 star Newquay brand hotel in the centre of town.

“This will be creating in excess of 100 jobs that are needed within the town. The hotel itself will be around 85 rooms and we plan to add a full service spa to the hotel.

“In order to fund the works for the hotel there is some necessary residential development within the curtilage of the site, which will be sympathetically designed to work and not compete with the hotel. It will be subservient to it.

“We plan to run through the public consultation. Go through the design review panels and all being well aim to submit a planning application at the end of July, which means that towards the end of this year if we are successful with the planning application we can get on with the hotel and try and get it open as early as we can into next year.”

A spokesperson for The Nicolas James Group added: “The homes are designed to complement the character of the area and provide desirable living spaces within this unique coastal setting.

“The redevelopment plans incorporate a strong focus on enhancing the existing landscape and promoting biodiversity across the Hotel Victoria site.

“We believe that a high-quality environment is integral to a successful development.

“This redevelopment represents a substantial investment in Newquay, aiming to create a vibrant, sustainable, and attractive destination for both visitors and residents.

“Our vision for the Hotel Victoria is to seamlessly integrate this iconic Newquay landmark into the NICI portfolio, ensuring it embodies the same high standards of luxury and guest satisfaction that define the brand. This redevelopment will see the Hotel Victoria transformed into a premier 4/5-star destination, attracting visitors and contributing significantly to the local economy.

“The Hotel Victoria, despite its grand history, needs substantial investment to bring it up to modern standards and ensure its long-term viability as an exceptional destination hotel.

“This significant investment is not merely cosmetic; it is crucial for ensuring the Hotel Victoria can once again thrive as a leading hotel, contributing positively to Newquay’s economy and reputation.

“Our aim is to create a destination hotel that not only meets the expectations of visitors to the town but also becomes a source of pride for the Newquay community.”