The development, which is backed by a private investor, will be operated by a third-party management company. Confirmation of the hotel’s operator is expected within the next two months.
The property is the culmination of many years of work by Zeal Hotels. Tim Wheeldon, managing director, Zeal Hotels, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be one step closer to bringing this project to life.
“We call it ‘Mindfully Modern’, and we intend to create an industry-leading sustainable hotel brand without compromising on the guest experience and comfort levels. The proposed development seeks to incorporate an innovative, low carbon building and operation standards, with the intention of being independent of the electricity grid.”
The hotel is aiming for a minimum BREEAM rating of Excellent, with a target of Outstanding. It will feature; meeting rooms, restaurant, bar, gym, gardens, and more than 25 car charging points.
Exeter Science Park is adjacent to J29 of the M5 Motorway and less than a mile away from Exeter airport.
Tim added: “Exeter has a global reputation for being at the forefront of sustainability, from the research at the university’s sustainability centre to the recent progress on a hybrid aircraft. It will be inspiring to be located in Exeter Science Park, sharing space with cutting-edge technology and the Met Office.”
“The sustainability challenge we are facing is huge and although we are small cog in a very big wheel, the issues we face have resulted in ESG & sustainability becoming the biggest team event we have ever seen. Collaboration is key at this stage and our planning documents are available for download on www.zealhotels.com."
Dr Sally Basker, CEO of Exeter Science Park Limited, said: “Zeal's innovative, 'mindfully modern' approach promises to deliver a highly sustainable, low-carbon hotel that will complement Exeter Science Park's existing net zero carbon buildings. This collaboration will create a destination that is low-carbon by design and helps innovative science-based companies to deliver extraordinary growth for our south-west region.”
Tags: Zeal Hotels, sustainable hotel
