Zeal Hotels enters exclusivity agreement with IHG for first net zero hotel

Zeal Hotels has signed an exclusivity agreement with IHG Hotels & Resorts for its first net zero carbon hotel in Exeter.

Construction of the property will start next month and the hotel is due to open in Q4 of 2024 under the management of Valor Hospitality.

Zeal Hotels submitted plans for the 142-bedroom site in Exeter Science Park to East Devon District Council in April 2022.

It aims for a minimum BREEAM rating of Excellent through the inclusion of solar panels, EV charging points and locally-sourced food.

The group added it is looking to create a hotel design that can be “replicated” as it is “seeking additional development opportunities in strategic locations throughout the UK”.

Tim Wheeldon, managing director of Zeal Hotels, said: “Hospitality has been lagging behind other industries in its commitment to net zero carbon and we are looking forward to welcoming guests to join us on our journey.”