Zeal Hotels submits plans to launch its first sustainable hotel in Exeter

Zeal Hotels plans to launch its first ever sustainable hotel at Exeter Science Park after sending the project for approval to East Devon District Council.

The 142-room hotel is to mark the beginning of Zeal hotels’ plans to build more sustainable hotels across the UK, in partnership with a third-party operator that is soon to be confirmed.

The site, which has been backed by a private investor, is located less than a mile away from Exeter airport and aims for a minimum BREEAM (sustainability assessment) rating of Excellent, with a target of Outstanding.

Tim Wheeldon, managing director at Zeal Hotels, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be one step closer to bringing this project to life.

“We call it ‘Mindfully Modern’, and we intend to create an industry-leading sustainable hotel brand without compromising on the guest experience and comfort levels.

“The proposed development seeks to incorporate an innovative, low carbon building and operation standards, with the intention of being independent of the electricity grid.”

Wheeldon added: “Exeter has a global reputation for being at the forefront of sustainability, from the research at the university’s sustainability centre to the recent progress on a hybrid aircraft.

“The sustainability challenge we are facing is huge and although we are small cog in a very big wheel, the issues we face have resulted in ESG & sustainability becoming the biggest team event we have ever seen."

Dr Sally Basker, CEO of Exeter Science Park Limited, said: “Zeal's innovative, 'mindfully modern' approach promises to deliver a highly sustainable, low-carbon hotel that will complement Exeter Science Park's existing net zero carbon buildings.

“This collaboration will create a destination that is low-carbon by design and helps innovative science-based companies to deliver extraordinary growth for our south-west region.”

Zeal Hotels was established in 2012 and has since launched a new brand that is aiming to reach carbon net zero.

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