The landmark Connaught Hotel on Tettenhall Road in Wolverhampton is undergoing a gleaming transformation, thanks to a six-figure investment by local businessman Jas Singh. Four years after taking over the property, Singh has poured around £400,000 into restoring the historic hotel to its former glory.
A Historic Landmark
Located in the Chapel Ash area, the Connaught Hotel sits on one of the main roads into Wolverhampton, about a mile from the city centre. With a history spanning over half a century, the hotel has hosted the Northern Soul scene in the 1960s and welcomed guests such as James Bond actor Sir Roger Moore. It was previously owned by Lord Harmar-Nicholls, father of Coronation Street actress Sue Nicholls.
Restoration Journey
When Singh, who grew up in Handsworth, took over the hotel in 2022, the building was in need of significant restoration. Since then, the 53-year-old has overseen a comprehensive renovation program. The banqueting hall has been retiled, and the bar and restaurant have been revamped. The new restaurant, named Wolf and Whiskey as a nod to Wolverhampton Wanderers, is set to open soon, offering breakfast, fusion food, and a bar and grill. Singh opened the restaurant in memory of his late brother, Gurvinder Singh.
One of the biggest expenses has been the fire alarm system, which Singh prioritised for safety. He said, “I thought that was the most important thing because if there was an incident — we’ve seen what happened in Grenfell Towers — we know that we’ve secured our building.”
Other upgrades include new toilets, a new kitchen, and new boilers, costing almost £110,000. The top floor of the four-storey hotel is currently vacant, and Singh is seeking a tenant such as a gym group to offer classes.
Investment and Future Plans
Singh estimates total spending between £350,000 and £400,000, much of which is unseen by guests. He said, “It’s been hard work with the lack of investment that’s been put into the building over the years. It’s an ongoing investment program that will carry on for a few more years, but we’re getting there.”
The hotel now has 60 rooms and 60 parking spaces at the rear. For non-drivers, good transport and taxi connections are available. Guests include contractors and visitors to Wolverhampton. During the World Cup, the hotel will show live games, and the bar and restaurant are open as workspace for people to come in and work.
The Connaught Hotel is located at 44 to 50 Tettenhall Road, Wolverhampton, WV1 4SW.
