YORK’S first DoubleTree by Hilton will open its doors this autumn as the £3 million transformation of an existing hotel in the city sees the completion of a crucial phase.

It was announced in April this year that the Best Western Monkbar Hotel will become a DoubleTree by Hilton following the completion of a seven-figure investment in the site.

The hotel is now primed to relaunch in the autumn as work to convert seven meeting rooms into 17 additional bedroom has finished, ahead of the next phase which consists of re-configuring the reception area, enhancing the front lounge and upgrading the existing bedrooms.

In addition to the new bedrooms, which take the number of letting rooms from 126 to 143, the redesigned hotel will boast a new fitness suite, enhanced courtyard-area, air conditioning in all rooms, digital keys and an “evolving” food and beverage operation including a new kitchen garden dining experience.

In order to meet the exacting standards set by the Hilton group, a “brand ambassador” has been appointed to oversee the transformation process ensuring the DoubleTree by Hilton York is fully brand compliant.

Graham Usher, general manager, said: “Work is now well underway on our transformation, and I’m delighted to say we are on track for a grand autumn unveiling of the DoubleTree by Hilton York.

“Thanks to York’s strengthening position as a major destination for leisure and business tourists, Shiva, the hotel’s owners, have the confidence to know this latest £3 million is a sound investment.

“Without a shadow of a doubt we are entering the most exciting stage in the hotel’s 27 year history, and we are looking forward to being able to say to guests, ‘welcome to the DoubleTree by Hilton York – with the iconic, warm DoubleTree cookie in hand!”

Hilton signed a franchise agreement earlier this year with Leisurepoint, a wholly owned subsidiary the hotel’s parent company Shiva Hotels, to re-open the hotel in St Maurice’s Road with the new name.

The latest investment comes on top of a separate £3 million investment a couple of years ago which saw a 27-room extension built at the Monkbar.

It was the first extension at the Monkbar Hotel since 1998 when it increased its capacity to 99 bedrooms.

The hotel began life as the 49-bedroomed Russell Hotel. The Monkbar Hotel was purchased in 2007 by Shiva Hotels, which owns venues around the country.