A HISTORIC Wickford hotel which was used to house asylumseekers has been put on the market for more than £1.5 million.

The Chichester Hotel, in Old London Road, is up for sale for offers more than £1,600,000, with specialist business property adviser Christie & Co taking the lead.

It comes just a year after 13th century venue turned into a home for asylum-seekers awaiting outcomes on applications for residency.

The Home Office scheme was axed after it received strong community and political backlash.

At the time the hotel was forced to cancelled weddings, parties and large events to accommodate the use. 

The property features 36 en-suite bedrooms, a bar, restaurant, and extensive wedding and event spaces.

The venue which was renowned as one of the region’s most popular venues for weddings and events closed in May. 

Chris Stanley, Downhall and Rawreth ward Liberal Democrat councillor, said he believed the hotel needed to be "brought up to a more 21st century feel."

He added: The asylum-seekers taking residence situation last year put The Chichester in an awkward situation.

“The owners of the hotel, Zifhan and Imran Zeman, are a part of the community, well respected and liked.

“The Chichester is a well-known venue, but it does need to be brought up to a more 21st century feel.

“Let’s hope the new owners will do just that but regardless, it’ll still be well liked and used among the community.”

Simon Jackaman, director of Hotels East Anglia, who is handling the sale, said: “This is a very attractive underlying piece of real estate, and it’s our hope to find a new owner and hopefully new investment through an open marketing process.

“The hotel was operated over many years as a family concern by our clients but more recently, they had leased it out, resulting in its closure around May 2023.

“In view of the attractive location and potential business upside opportunities presented, I believe the hotel is likely to generate a wide variety of prospective purchasers and/or investors, both from within the industry as well as those looking for lifestyle investments.”

For more information, visit: christie.com.