Stoke-on-Trent's first Hilton-branded hotel has officially opened its doors.

The city's Lord Mayor, councillor Ross Irving, took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday (8th)  to declare Hanley's Hilton Garden Inn officially open.

He was joined by Stoke-on-Trent City Council Leader Abi Brown.

Councillor Brown said: "This is a landmark occasion and the hotel is a great asset for the city. It is a further sign that Stoke-on-Trent is ‘powering up’ as we recover from the impact of the coronavirus, and is the latest in a series of exciting developments at Smithfield in our city centre that show that Stoke-on-Trent is on the up.

"As well as the prestigious Hilton brand, the hotel brings skilled jobs and investment into the city."

The £20 million hotel - which is owned by Genr8 Developments and operated by RBH - forms part of the landmark Smithfield development, being brought to the city in a partnership between Genr8 and Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

It boasts 140 bedrooms, state-of-the-art meeting and conference facilities and a fully-equipped gym for guests. There is also a stylish bar and full-service restaurant.

Ben Carey, general manager of Hilton Garden Inn Stoke-on-Trent, said: "This is an exceptionally proud moment for myself and the rest of the team, all of whom have worked tirelessly to ensure we are ready to open our doors to guests and locals alike.

"Stoke-on-Trent is an incredibly welcoming and friendly city, and we are poised to ensure our guests receive a signature Stoke welcome alongside the truly first-class service they would expect from the Hilton brand."

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Richard Ingham, Partner of Genr8 Developments, added: "This is another major milestone at Smithfield, and we're delighted to be bringing this high-quality Hilton hotel to Stoke-on-Trent. The team has worked relentlessly ahead of opening in difficult circumstances and we are really looking forward to welcoming the first guests."