PLANS for a new hotel in the city centre are in the pipeline - that’s the message from business leaders at Travelodge.

The budget hotel chain is looking at new sites in Essex, including one in Chelmsford.

Travelodge, the county’s first budget brand hotel chain, is looking to expand its group of hotels in the county with a further 11 new sites.

The chain currently operates 14 hotels in Essex and it opened its first in Brentwood in 1986.

The expansion is valued at £88 million, with Travelodge claiming it will create 350 new jobs.

The new Romford site is the company’s 548th hotel is located in the heart of Romford town centre above The Quadrant shopping centre.

Julia Jeapes, councillor for leisure, has welcomed the plans from the hotel gi - ant.

She added: “Well I think it is really interesting that big businesses are show - ing interest in coming to Chelmsford.

“The council is working hard on the leisure provision, including our new Riverside Ice and Leisure Centre development, and I really hope that the work of the council will help this new hotel that is being considered.

“I think this also shows how leisure companies recognise our city as a leisure destination.”

Bryn Taylor, Travelodge Regional Director for the South East said: “Over the last three decades. Travelodge has become famous across the county for offering unbeatable value and making travel afforda - ble for everyone, which has helped attract more business and leisure travellers to the area.

“As we look to the future, Essex is a key growth area for Travelodge.

“Following our £1.2 million investment in upgrading the customer experience and raising quality levels across our Essex hotels, we have seen a significant rise in sales - interestingly, with more business customers stay - ing in our hotels than ever before.

“The Essex economy is growing at pace with increasing visitor numbers to the area.

“However, there is still a shortage of good quality accommodation at a great value price.”