The Holiday Inn Solihull is carrying out a £1 million refurbishment programme in its ground floor public areas including an outdoor heated terrace to showcase the hotel's lake and fountain.

The eight-week project is set to be completed this month.

General manager Martin Woods said: "Our location has always been the envy of many but, by our own admission, some of the areas were becoming tired and out-dated.

"The investment literally injects a new lease of life into the hotel and, by opening up the areas to create a more open plan environment, we will be offering a softer, modern, fashionable experience in these key customer areas.

"The hotel lake and fountain has lost its personality over the years and we are now putting that back by opening out the lounge area with floor to ceiling folding doors onto a newly designed terrace with contemporary lighting and canopies so this area naturally draws the eye and becomes a focal point.

"The terrace area and contemporary bar is set to be a welcome addition to the social scene for the many local residents that come into town for a drink or bite to eat."

The refurbishment is part of a re-vamp of all customer 'touch-points' in the whole ground floor including the reception, lounge area, bar and restaurant.

Mr Woods added: "We are looking to create multi-functional space that appeals to both leisure and business guests and I am confident that we will deliver on this to really put ourselves back on the map with a complete overhaul.

"This is part one of the investment programme which will also see refurbishment to the bedrooms commencing later in the year."