Hampshire Cricket Hires New Contractor to Complete Ageas Bowl Development

Hampshire Cricket’s parent company RB Sport & Leisure Holdings PLC have announced  the appointment of a new contractor, there Powells Group Ltd who will complete the Hilton at The Ageas Bowl, Southampton. 

Work on the 175-bedroom hotel ceased in September 2013 when the previous contractor (Denizen) went into administration. The Club has been working intensely alongside all key stakeholders to bring together a complex series of contracts and agreements in order for a new contractor to be appointed. 

Despite the delay there will be no additional cost to Eastleigh Borough Council who remain central to this exciting project. 

The Hotel is now scheduled to open in spring 2015 although the Media Centre it houses will be ready in time to host written and broadcast media at the England v India Investec Test Match starting on 27^th July. 

Rod Bransgrove, Chairman of Hampshire Cricket said: “Through no fault of the Club or Eastleigh Borough Council, the Hotel development encountered a major setback towards the end of last year. We have worked tirelessly alongside all the key stakeholders in this project to recommence work in the shortest time possible given the complex nature of this project. Our aim of creating a model Test Match ground and world-class destination resort is stronger than ever although the realisation of this aim will be just a little later than we had originally planned.” 

Gordon Wells, Chairman of Powells Group added: “As a Hampshire based company, we are delighted to have been awarded the contract to complete the Hilton Hotel at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton and our aim is to continue to use local tradesmen and businesses wherever possible. 

“Our forte is the production of high quality commercial interiors, including hotels, retail premises, showrooms, restaurants and offices. Our additional experience of heavy construction work puts us in a perfect position to complete this project on time, on budget and to the highest possible standards as evidenced by our enviable client list including the likes of Louis Vuitton, Prada, Burberry and many other world renowned high profile companies.