Travelodge said today it was actively targeting Kidderminster as a prime location. The announcement comes as the group is due to open a hotel in Wolverhampton.

News that it is actively targeting Kidderminster has thrilled civic leaders.

Shula Gillam, spokesman Travelodge, said: “Kidderminster really is a target location. We definitely want a hotel in that area.

“This is part of our national openings programme and we intend to treble the size of our estate by 2020.

“In the Midlands we are pledging to create 3,000 beds and 30 hotels and this will create 700 jobs and involve an investment of more than £90 million.

“We are already taking space at Wolverhampton, near the Wolves ground,  Molineux.

Councillor Stephen Clee, cabinet member with Wyre Forest District Council with special responsibility for planning and economic regeneration, said: “Kidderminster and the Wyre Forest district is desperately in need of hotel accommodation and welcomes the interest shown by several hotels.”