AN ICONIC Lake District hotel has began work on its transformation after receiving a £7m investment backed by CBRE Global Investors.

The Swan Hotel, in Newby Bridge, is making the most of lockdown to begin the major renovation as it transforms into a world-class spa destination.

The hotel has commissioned award winning architects DLG to design the extion of the hotel, with specialist contractors Medlock bringing the design to life.

The renovation is expected to employ more than 70 workers across the contractors.

During phase one, service diversions will begin imminently and are scheduled to take three weeks. Phase two will see the creation of a brand new guest car park built in six weeks and phase three, the main building works, will commence in the new year with completion expected in October 2021.

A new extension to the hotel will house 30 additional bedrooms and a brand new spa to complement current facilities at the hotel.

Sarah Gibbs, managing director of The Swan, is excited to see what the future brings for the hotel - remaining positive despite the current lockdown.

She said: “Whilst it’s unfortunate we must shut while we endure another national lockdown, we’re staying positive and productive by breaking ground on our new development. We’ve got a great team on board and are really excited to get the project underway, we already can’t wait to reveal all in 2021.

“It’s been a tough year for all but we’re really delighted to be investing back into the economy.

"Being able to provide work in these times of uncertainty is something are doing with great pleasure.”

To keep up to date with the renovations, visit www.swanhotel.com.

Alternatively, you can follow The Swan on Instagram at: @theswannewbybridge and on Facebook by searching The Swan Hotel and Spa.