A NEW 74-room Travelodge will also be a new fixture at Lakeside.

It comes as part of the firm’s announcement that it will open 15 new hotels in 2017, including the company’s second opening in Thurrock at the shopping centre. Travelodge says it will create 20 new jobs within the community and also boost the local economy by £2 million.

The new-build will feature bedside USB charging points, LED ceiling lighting, and Samsung 32-inch digital televisions.

Peter Gowers, Travelodge Chief Executive said: “The march of the low-cost hotel sector continues, fuelled by businesses looking to reduce travel costs and the new generation of independent leisure travellers.

“To meet the growing demand, we are adding further capacity in key locations such as Thurrock Lakeside and expanding to new markets.

“This will continue the ongoing transformation of Travelodge into a high quality, low-cost brand for both business and leisure.”