Work is underway to redevelop a hotel in Ridgetown into something even bigger.
A company based in Mississauga has started renovating the former Bateman Inn on Victoria Road and Highway 401 into a two-storey, 88-room hotel, more than twice its original size. The new hotel will also have a meeting hall.
The company also plans to build a gas bar, a convenience store, a formal restaurant, a McDonald’s restaurant, a new truck depot, and a steel rebar manufacturing facility on the site.
The proposal is expected to create nearly 300 jobs.
Ward 3 Councillor Morena McDonald told CK News Today that it's wonderful news for the community and its economy.
"It's really exciting for our town. I think it's one the biggest things we've seen in a long time, especially in that area, it's really needed. I think it'll be great exposure, for people driving along the 401, anyone who's not from here, they'll stop and get some gas and some dinner. But also maybe be encouraged to explore some small towns along the way," said McDonald.
McDonald said the Chatham-Kent region desperately needs another hotel, especially in the east end of the municipality.
"The potential for jobs, the McDonald's, the hotel, the gas station, they need people to run. I think it's a really great boost to our local economy, the towns nearby like Thamesville, Highgate, Morpeth, Ridgetown, they're going to need a lot of people to work there. So, I think it's really great for anyone who lives in the area and is looking for work," the councillor noted.
The project must go through several approvals, but if it gets the green light, it should be ready by spring.
