The Chester Grosvenor will close this week for its first comprehensive refurbishment in more than 40 years.

The Grade II listed hotel will close on Wednesday 30 September, following Bespoke Hotels' decision earlier this year to cease operating it.

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.

Subject to planning, the works are expected to take around two years from when they begin, including conservation work alongside updated hotel facilities and interiors.

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.

Martin Property Group, which has a portfolio of hotels and regeneration projects across the UK and Ireland, will take over operation of the hotel when it reopens.

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.

Announcing that Martin Property Group would lead the renovations earlier this month, Nicholas Dobbs, head of Grosvenor's family office and Grosvenor rural estates, said: "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."