The Chester Grosvenor is to close at the end of this month for a major refurbishment led by Martin Property Group, which will take over operation of the hotel when it reopens.

While Grosvenor will retain the freehold of the hotel site, it has appointed the family-owned Martin Property Group to carry out the work, which will be the first comprehensive refurbishment of the Grade II listed hotel in more than 40 years.

The hotel will close on 30 September following Bespoke Hotels' decision earlier this year to cease operating The Chester Grosvenor.

It is understood that Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) was discovered in some of the building's conference rooms, causing a potential safety risk.

At the time, the operator pointed to "the scale and complexity" of the works required to put a long-term solution in place.

Martin Property Group, which has a portfolio of hotels and regeneration projects across the UK and Ireland, will operate the hotel once it reopens.

While final plans are still being developed, the refurbishment is expected to include conservation work alongside updated hotel facilities and interiors. Subject to planning, the works are expected to take around two years from when they begin.

The company has also been investing in Chester since acquiring the freehold of the former Grosvenor Shopping Centre, now Eastgate Shopping Centre, from Grosvenor in 2022

Its work in the city includes the redevelopment of the former Debenhams building, which is being brought back into use by Harrods.

Nicholas Dobbs, head of Grosvenor's family office and Grosvenor rural estates, said: "We are delighted to have chosen Martin Property Group to shape the next chapter of the hotel's history and, upon completion, to operate the business.

"Grosvenor has deep roots in Chester and a long-term commitment to its success. It was vital to us to choose a partner that shares our values and outlook, with the credentials, independence and perspective needed to protect the character that makes the hotel so special.

"Our ambition is to reopen as The Chester Grosvenor, creating new employment, strengthening Chester's tourism and hospitality economy and delivering long-term value for the city."

Paul G. Martin, managing director of Martin Property Group, said the project represented the company's latest investment in Chester.

He said: "We understand the responsibility that comes with being the long-term custodian of a building of this importance.

"Together with Grosvenor, our ambition is to create an exceptional five-star hotel that celebrates its remarkable heritage while establishing a contemporary destination of national and international standing."

He added that the company would work to ensure the Chester Grosvenor "remains one of the city's great landmarks for generations to come."