The aim: promote everything in one go, as part
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Now Bliss is investing nearly £4m into the site over the next two years to transform it into a luxurious boutique Bliss Hotel – the first of its type in the country when it launches in December.
The fifth floor has already been extensively refurbished with stylish new rooms including three lavish penthouses which are planned for later this year.
The work aims to capitalise on the 133-bed building’s location, overlooking the Marine Lake with its far-reaching views over Southport’s line.
Other floors in the hotel will follow, with the capacity to expand rooms if needed. There are also plans to open a spa.
Leading the changes is current general manager Enda Rylands, who will assume the role of chief operating officer of the entire Waterfront complex following the planned integration of Southport Theatre & Convention Centre from June 1.
He is looking forward to returning to The Liverpool City Region Tourism Awards in two weeks’ time, with the Ramada once again shortlisted for Hotel of The Year, as well as being in the running for the People’s Choice Award and the Tourism coast- Staff of the Year Award.
Mr Rylands said: “For Bliss to make this level of investment shows the remarkable level of confidence they have both in the existing hotel and its potential but also in its vision for the Waterfront complex and for the future of Southport as a whole.
“If we make this a success then the hotel will benefit, but so will every other hotel, B&B, shop, bar and restaurant in the town. We want to attract bigger and better conferences to Southport, and that will boost everyone.”
The ambitious plans to transform the hotel include moving the reception area from the first floor to the ground floor, along with creating a new restaurant and bar, creating more space for banqueting and functions on the first floor.
Enda Rylands said: “This is the first. What we are doing here is something which can make a huge difference to Southport, but could also lead to Bliss Hotels in Manchester, San Francisco, or wherever.
“We aim to make The Waterfront a leisure destination that will attract people to Southport both nationally and internationally.
“When you see the wealth of interest when