UK budget hotel brand Travelodge has revealed the commencement of construction works on a 182-room hotel next to the new 16,500-seat national arena in Cardiff.

The arena is part of the Atlantic Wharf regeneration project in Cardiff Bay.

The Atlantic Wharf 33.5-acre masterplan consists of four development phases and is scheduled for completion in approximately seven years. The first phase focuses on the arena, hotel and a multi-storey car park.

The Travelodge hotel forms part of the arena development led by Live Nation, Robertson Property, and Cardiff City Council. The hotel site is within a five-minute walk of Cardiff Bay Station.

The hotel development includes designated parking for hotel guests and additional parking as part of the wider Atlantic Wharf project.

The property will include Travelodge’s updated design features such as a modern reception area and redesigned rooms. An on-site 85 Bar Café will be available for guests.

Mclaren Construction is to serve as the hotel's principal contractor.

Travelodge UK development director Tony O’Brien said: “We’re very excited to begin construction on our new hotel at the national arena in Cardiff. Once finished, the arena will hold world-class events, making it a prime location for visitors, and the 182-room Travelodge will be one of our flagship assets, providing a well-connected, great-value base for business and leisure customers attending events at the new arena or visiting Cardiff and the surrounding area.

“This project is a brilliant example of how Councils can deliver very significant inward investment that will attract thousands of visitors to Cardiff every year.

“We’re delighted to see work now underway at this fantastic development and look forward to welcoming guests when the hotel opens.”