Construction of the first chain-brand hotel in the Strathroy area is imminent.
Adelaide-Metcalfe Mayor Kurtis Smith said they've approved a site plan for construction of a four-storey, 90 room Holiday Inn Express, just south of the Tim Horton's on Centre Road.
"It's been a long time coming," said Smith. "That site was originally approved for a hotel there in 2011. We broke ground on that property, but it has changed hands a couple times. These developers, they're very excited. We've allowed them to go ahead with a conditional building permit to get the hotel construction up and going."
Smith said the hotel will fill a long-time void.
"It really is much needed. There's wedding venues, soccer tournaments, hockey tournaments and when we have employees coming there, they don't have a space to stay so they either stay in Sarnia or London. Having this new hotel come to the area is going to make things a lot nicer for everyone and be such an economic driver in our community."
Smith said in addition to the hotel, a new gas bar and Wendy's fast-food restaurant are planned on the property.
The project still needs final approval from Middlesex County.
Smith said staff are still finishing plans for a new intersection with traffic lights to access the development.