LEISURE developers have vowed to lure families back to Bournemouth by investing £43 million in three new hotels in the resort.

Following years of hotel closures to make way for burgeoning flat blocks, the Isle of Wight-based Carlton Hotel Group has revealed plans to build two new four-star hotels on a prime East Cliff site.

The group, which already has hotels in Bournemouth, Eastbourne, Torquay and the Isle of Wight, is also planning to virtually double the size of the Tralee on the West Cliff which will be run by a budget hotel operator.

A Carlton Hotel Group spokesman told the Daily Echo: "We have a site on the East Cliff which is currently occupied by three hotels.

"Our aim is to build two four-star hotels and a nursing home, which will help fund the development, at that location. Holiday Inn hotels are front-runners but we are also having talks with the Hilton hotel group.

"We believe there is a gap in the market for quality family accommodation; the new hotels will not be catering for club-goers who come to town on Friday and Saturday nights.

"Our plans will regenerate the East Cliff area and provide an anchor between Bournemouth town centre and Boscombe where so much investment is taking place."

He added: "We see Bournemouth as a premier resort and are confident for its future. The hotels will give families a choice of accommodation with health spa, gym and conference facilities."

A spokesman for Ringwood-based Planning Solutions, who are handling the planning applications for the three sites, said: "It is hoped to erect a glass roof-top restaurant, with panoramic views over the bay, at one of the East Cliff hotels which would be the perfect vantage point for the fireworks and air shows.

"Our aim is to attract a London restaurant owner. Research has identified a real need for two quality four-star hotels in Bournemouth. We will be liaising with East Cliff residents' association and local ward councillors."

The CHG is planning to invest £8 million in creating a new hotel on the site of the Tralee boasting 110 bedrooms. Subject to planning approval, developers hope work will start in June and be completed by next Easter.

Work on the £35 million East Cliff hotels is anticipated to begin at the end of this year with opening scheduled for early 2010.

Planning Solutions have already secured planning permission for the Premier Travel Inn on the site of the former Cadogan and East Anglia hotels in Westbourne.

CHG, the site freeholders, are awaiting a decision on whether planning permission will be granted for 51 flats to help finance the scheme.