PLANNING consent has been given for the construction of a new 135-room hotel at Leigh Sports Village.

Brussels based Rezidor Hotel Group has signed up to build one of its Park Inn hotels on the 80 acre site, ideally located halfway between Manchester and Liverpool, and close to the motorway network.

The hotel, which is expected to open in 2008, will include spa facilities and conference rooms.

Developer Greenbank is being advised by retail specialists Cheetham & Mortimer and Parkinson Commercial Property Consultants.

Work is well under way on the first phase of the development.