The Zetland Hotel located in Middlesbrough’s historic quarter, has utilised funds from Tees Valley Business Compass to bring the hotel up to date. With the area set to become a hub of activity, with the likes of the Kings Cross direct link, it was essential that the hotel was brought into the 21st century.
This was no easy task to complete, aligning the old with the new, and ensuring the Grade II listed building could be brought up to date to provide all the services the modern commuter expects.
High-speed internet connectivity had not previously been possible without a large outlay, following discussions with Middlesbrough Council and Communicate Technology PLC, the cost burden was lessened by the owners accessing the Tees Valley Business Compass Broadband voucher scheme. The scheme gives claimants access to 33% of funding towards improving business broadband speed to a minimum of 30 mbps.
Communicate PLC, based in Wynyard, provides, installs and maintains IT, Telecoms, Cloud-based services and Cyber Security products and services to businesses across the UK, were commissioned to deliver the specialist work.
“We love getting involved in local projects and helping businesses in the area. It’s so important that businesses have the right internet connectivity to match users’ expectations.
“The Tees Valley Business Compass Broadband Voucher Scheme is brilliant, improving business broadband has never been so easy, it’s a simple process and accessible to so many. There really isn’t an excuse to not provide high-speed internet connectivity,” explains Tony Snaith, Communicate Technology’s CEO.
Co-owner of The Zetland Hotel, Philip Christie said: “It’s been really exciting to renovate The Zetland Hotel, uncovering its architectural hidden gems. However, we knew that despite its historic importance, we needed to bring it bang up to date, and high speed connectivity was key. We engaged Communicate to plan, install and set up the technology into the building and provide Wi-Fi access points.
“We’re very excited for the future. There’s so much new development happening around us, with the Albert North development and the Middlesbrough to King’s Cross direct link. Communicate has ensured that we can satisfy modern expectations from our customers, by giving them the connectivity they need for their meetings.”
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This news couldn’t have come at a better time. We’re netting world-class, big-ticket events across Tees Valley which will help boost overnight stays, but we’re also shouting to investors, companies and executives that we’re a great place to do business. It’s fantastic that The Zetland Hotel has recognised that business travellers and visitors alike demand the best in high-speed connectivity and taken the initiative to do something about it.
“Business Compass’s Broadband Voucher scheme is another string to its bow and shows that whatever support our local firms need, they are more than capable of helping. I’d urge any local firms to make the most of this valuable scheme we’ve put together.”
Lisa Gowler, Business Growth Consultant, Tees Valley Business Compass: “It’s fantastic to see what’s happening in this area in Middlesbrough. We’re pleased we’ve been able to support The Zetland to improve their business broadband and we’re looking forward to watching them grow and establish their hotel in the Historic Quarter.”
Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Deputy Mayor and Executive member for City Centre Strategy, said: “We’ve made great strides in the last few years to establish Middlesbrough as the city heart of the Tees Valley and the Historic Quarter is a key part of this ambition.
“The Zetland is just one of a number of important late 19th century buildings that have a significant part to play in the regeneration of this area.
“The Council has supported Philip and Joanne to realise their vision from the outset ensuring they were connected to the relevant business support agencies and guided by our conservation and planning teams.
“The finished restaurant and brasserie is simply outstanding – we will continue to work with Philip and Joanne to ensure they have a successful future in Middlesbrough.”
