PREMIER Inn has said it remains fully committed to building a new hotel at Sandown seafront — months after construction work was due to start in spring.

Building work on the new 100 bedroom hotel was due to begin earlier this year with the £10 million building due to open next summer.

However, due to technical issues with nearby structures, the work has been delayed.

Premier Inn said it was working to resolve the problems and expected to reach an agreement shortly.

Premier Inn programme manager, Geoff Cook, said: "We are working to resolve technical matters with adjoining structures that emerged during the site preparation.

"We're hoping to start construction work soon but things have to to be right before out contractor team starts work.

"We hope to finalise all outstanding issues shortly and then move on to the construction phase. We're fully committed to investing in Sandown and building a great new hotel and restaurant."

Isle of Wight Cllr Debbie Andre, Island Independent ward member for Sandown North, who recently met with Mr Cook, said: "I would like to reassure residents that throughout this process, despite unforeseen issues arising, Premier Inn has remained fully committed to the project and has worked hard to resolve all issues so the redevelopment of the former Carlton Hotel site can go ahead.

"They have been forthcoming with information and a willingness to engage with me which I warmly welcome.

"They have agreed to tidy up the existing site prior to the commencement of the work and we are currently discussing ways in which the site can be made more attractive during the construction phase.

"The investment in Sandown of such a well-known and popular brand will be a real boost to the local economy and will be a major factor in the regeneration of the Bay area."

Premier Inn is expected to confirm its full construction programme once the issues have been resolved and the contractor team is on site.