Two retail units at a £20 million redevelopment of a city centre hotel could finally be taken over after sitting empty for five years.
The former Slatters Hotel in St Margaret’s Street, Canterbury, was knocked down and rebuilt as part of a long-awaited project, relaunching as Hampton by Hilton in 2021.
The Slatters retail units are finally set to be filled. Picture: Slatters Development
A rooftop restaurant – which recently welcomed burger joint Notorious BRG into the kitchen – was also part of the scheme, alongside two commercial spots earmarked for retail or food and drink businesses.
A bid to alter the conditions of the building – allowing a wider range of businesses to move in – was approved two years ago, and could have finally paid off.
In papers submitted to Canterbury City Council for signage, Slatters Development bosses said it is hoped both units would be filled by a beauty clinic.
Slatters Hotel before it was redeveloped. Picture: Barry Duffield
Lumi Skin Clinic would offer skin, body and laser treatments, though it is not known when they would open or who is behind the business.
Project managers previously said there had been a lack of interest due to conditions attached to the planning permission, which was granted in 2015.
Originally, the units were to be dedicated space for shops or restaurants, but Slatters told the council in December 2023: “There has been limited interest in the ground-floor units.
How the signage at the Slatters unit could look. Picture: Slatters Development
“This situation has been further compounded by Covid, which has continued to erode commercial interest in the floor space.”
The new arrival comes as Notorious BRG settles into life as part of the team tasked with revamping the rooftop bar.
Formerly known as Socialite, it opened to much fanfare in 2022 as part of the grand redevelopment.
Notorious BRG has taken over the former Socialite unit in Canterbury in partnership with Hampton by Hilton
However, four years and a day after signing a lease, the company was unceremoniously locked out in January.
Now, six months on, it has relaunched as The Rooftop – with Notorious BRG in charge of the food.
Owner Jonny Wall told KentOnline last month it was the result of seven years’ hard work since launching the business in Castle Street, Canterbury.
“This is my crowning achievement,” he added.