MULTI-MILLION pound work to redevelop a landmark Highbridge hotel is 'progressing very well', says the chief executive of the YMCA. 

The foundations and metal frame of the new Highbridge Hotel building on Huntspill Road are now in place and building work is set to be completed be completed by August 2019.

The former hotel was severely damaged by fire in 2008 and also in 2011 before YMCA Somerset Coast took control of the site in 2014.

When the project is completed the former hotel will provide a community hub, cafe, sports hall and 23 homes for vulnerable young people.

Speaking about the development, Martin Hodgson, chief executive of YMCA Somerset Coast, said: "It is all progressing very well, on plan and on budget.

"The YMCA team are very excited and cant wait to get inside the building late next summer.

"Whilst it has taken a considerable time getting to this point we feel our commitment to the project is now bearing fruit.

"We are thankful to all our partners for their support and to the local community for their continued interest and we look forward to welcoming people in to the building in September 2019, and possibly for sneak peaks before then."

The site is being managed by John Perkins Construction and the project is being funded by the YMCA, Sedgemoor District Council, and Homes England.

Cllr Bill Hancock, mayor of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge, said: "It is really encouraging to see the impressive building taking shape on this important site at the entrance to Highbridge.

"This is a fantastic improvement for the town and will make a real difference to the look and feel of the area for many years to come.”

Cllr Andy Brewer, chairman of the council's planning committee, echoed the Mayor's comments and said he is 'pleased' works to build the hotel have started.

"The planning committee were consulted extensively by Development Management at Sedgemoor District Council and I believe we had a positive input to the granting of Planning Permission for the new YMCA building," Cllr Brewer said.

"We were very pleased at the full council meeting on September 3 when Martin Hodgson of the YMCA informed us that construction works had commenced that day.

"Over the past few weeks it has been encouraging to see the steelwork for the new building taking shape and we look forward to the new building becoming a real asset to the community as well as providing a visual reminder of the Highbridge Hotel that was part of the heritage of the town.”