A KIDDERMINSTER hotel is celebrating a landmark birthday by announcing major plans for its future.

The Granary Hotel, in Shenstone, has taken on a new Operations Manager Darryl Saunders as well as taking on four new staff in senior roles including a head chef.

But the Granary, which is marking its 40th year since opening as a carvery restaurant in 1978, has also unveiled plans to expand the grounds to enhance the business, particularly the wedding facilities.

Subject to approvals, the Granary will transform its four-bed villa at the front of the grounds by adding a separate access bride room, makeup room and private reception.

Bosses also want to increase the wedding hall size with a conservatory style extension. Other plans include modernising kitchens and increasing the number of rooms at the hotel.

Mr Saunders, who has previously run restaurants in London’s Leicester Square, said: “We believe that if you are going to dream then why not dream big.

“So we are not only moving towards providing new facilities but stimulating the economy by creating new jobs.

“There is a new buzz already started at the hotel with addition of a beautiful Gazebo to host outside weddings ceremonies in the hotel's two acre Market Garden.

“The wedding venue, reception area, bar and toilets are being decorated and modernised. The phased upgrade of hotel rooms is shortly to be started.

“We want to create a family destination where all members will be welcomed with the hospitality they deserve for being our guests.”

He added that there were further plans to revamp menus and the events offer at the venue.