The building opened originally in 1903 as Rowton House – hostel accommodation for migrant workers, mainly from Ireland, looking for work in Birmingham’s factories.

The building fell into disuse in the 1960’s before being converted into the 250-bedroom Paragon Hotel which opened in 1993. More recently the hotel has been used to house asylum seekers in the city. Now it is all about to change again.

Owners are preparing to invest in a multi-million overhaul of the hotel which will see it restored to its former glory with an additional 99 bedrooms added in a four-storey extension.

Plans are due to be presented to Birmingham’s city planning committee this week.

The Paragon Hotel is located in a run down, unfashionable part of the city and not quite within walking distance of the centre. However, the Digbeth area is now being rejuvenated.

The Custard Factory complex led the way when it opened several years ago on the site of the former Bird’s custard factory. It is now the city’s leading creative and digital centre.

Future rejuvenation looks guaranteed, spearheaded by the imminent arrival of HS2, the Metro extension and the major new Smithfield and Connaught Square developments in Digbeth.

Details: http://www.theparagonhotel.co.uk/