A NEW 172-bedroom hotel will open its doors in Bournemouth in 2013, according to its owners.

Following the granting of planning permission for the Richmond Gardens development surrounding the existing multi-storey car park, Rezidor Hotel Group has announced that the hotel aspect of the scheme will be branded as a Park Inn.

The plans also include a 15,000sqm of offices and 120 flats.

As well as the 172 rooms, the hotel will include a restaurant, bar, gym and meeting rooms. Top-floor guests will enjoy sea views.

The hotel chain has not yet said how many jobs might be created.

Kurt Ritter, president and CEO of Rezidor Hotels, said: "Our young, dynamic, mid-market brand, Park Inn by Radisson, will further grow in the key UK market.

"The hotels offer excellent value for money and hassle-free stays."

Tony Ramsden, of Planning Solutions, the agent for the scheme, which will be developed by Grosvenor, said: "Clearly they're keen to get on with the development. I know they're in advanced talks with the affordable housing company and also with the hotel group.

"My understanding is they're expecting to start in 2011."

The council gave planning permission in September and officers said the scheme was "an exciting piece of architecture providing a new hotel, housing in the town centre, including some affordable housing, and will introduce some life into what is somewhat an under-utilised backwater in the town centre."