Sidmouth RFC U16s at Exeter Airport

East Devon is set to get an economic and jobs boost after building work on a multimillion pound hotel and restaurant at Exeter International Airport began last week.

Contractor Denizen has begun initial works to build the 120-bedroom new Hampton by Hilton hotel and an 85-seat Marco Pierre White Frankies New York Italian restaurant.

The restaurant is a collaboration between celebrity chef Marco Pierre White and champion jockey Frankie Dettori.

The hotel bedrooms will include HD television, walk-in shower rooms, air conditioning and free wi-fi.

The development is the latest in a series of investments that has seen the east of Exeter enjoy a period of significant economic growth.

This includes the opening of the new Flybe training academy and infrastructure work at Growth Point around junction 29 of the M5, all coinciding with a rise in passenger numbers.

Both venues are owned by Guernsey-based investment fund Blackstone and operated by Sanguine Hospitality Limited, a hotel management and development company.

Nick Taplin, MD of at Sanguine Hospitality, who will run the development, said: “The start of work on site marks a major milestone in our ambitions for the site. Exeter airport is one of the most progressive in the country. Its location at the heart of the Exeter and East Devon Growth Point makes it a key factor in the future prosperity of the area.

“We see this as an area of strong economic and tourism growth and the airport’s strong relationship with Flybe is also very significant.”

Max Wright, director at the Flybe Training Academy, added: “The hotel development is a key part of the airport’s masterplan and will provide first class accommodation for passengers of the airport and students at the Flybe Training Academy.”