Castlebridge, known for its innovative hotel developments, has been teaming up with us at Metro Bank since January 2021. Jenna Dienn, Director at Castlebridge, highlights how this partnership has been pivotal for their projects.
We’ve got an amazing relationship with our Relationship Manager. Metro Bank supported us right from the start and really understood our needs. They’re so hands-on; the team visited our site three times before we signed the funding agreement, says Jenna. This personal touch set Metro Bank apart from other banks.
Castlebridge focuses on creating hotels that reflect their local communities. The development of Hotel Indigo in Coventry showcases this perfectly, and we supported this development by providing a £9.9 million loan to bring it to life.
Hotel Indigo Coventry is a tribute to the city’s rich history. Each of its floors features themes that celebrate Coventry’s heritage: The Spinning Wheel, Motor City, and Regeneration. “The community in Coventry is extremely important to us. Our hotel is designed around the neighbourhood, and having a great local team is key,” Jenna explains.
Castlebridge is committed to hiring locally. They’ve partnered with PET Xi, a training company, and JobShop, an employment centre in Coventry, to recruit passionate local staff. This supports the city council’s vision of enhancing Coventry through key projects like Hotel Indigo.
After the success of the Coventry project, we worked with Castlebridge again to refinance the Holiday Inn Winchester, securing an £8 million loan to convert it into an IHG Voco hotel.
Jenna says, Our relationship with Metro Bank has grown stronger over the last two years. When we have a new project or need to refinance, we don’t hesitate to call Andy Stone to explore opportunities together.
Andy Stone, Corporate Relationship Director at Metro Bank, emphasises the importance of understanding his clients. “I wanted to understand Jenna and her team’s dynamics. Metro Bank is all about relationship banking,” he says. This personal approach is valued by our customers, particularly when managing complex projects like Hotel Indigo.
Our dedication to personal service and local communities is evident through our actions. We host networking events to keep clients updated on industry trends and market developments, fostering a sense of community and shared growth. We’re committed to supporting local initiatives, and our hands-on approach means we’re always ready to help businesses navigate challenges and succeed.
Castlebridge’s journey with us demonstrates the power of a strong partnership. Together, we are transforming local landscapes and building something special, one hotel at a time.
Many thanks to Metro Bank for sharing this case study with the IIWH. Click the link below to read the full case study here and check out the brillant video case study.
