INVESTMENT in further improvements at Bradford’s historic Great Victoria hotel is set to reach £1 million as it bids to become a four star venue .

Owners Gainford Hotels, a North East-based group which bought the 73-bedroom the Victorian venue out of administration in 2012, has spent around £500,000 over the past year upgrading the hotel’s behind-the -scenes essential services such as the boiler and plant room.

The lift was refurbished and bedroom upgrades included new carpets.

Dan Kirkham, general manager for the past three years, said future investment was planned against a background of increasing trade and occupancy.

He said: “ Over the past two or three years we have seen room occupancy rise from just over 50 per cent to 80 per cent. This year were are hosting 42 weddings, compared with just three in 2013, so the signs are all good.

“We are also attracting more corporate business, including conferences and seminars. This all ensures that the Great Victoria is a profitable operation.”

The next round of investment will include installing new guest bathrooms and wi-fi TV services in the bedrooms.

“The investment is a key part of our of our aim to get the hotel designated as a four star venue.

“We have made good progress since the current owners took over and intend to build on this as business continues to improve,” said Dan

Gainford spent around £1 million in 2013 refurbishing the Bridge Street venue,which now has 55 full and part-time staff, including remodelling the ground-floor and basement areas, a new lounge, a marble floored foyer, refurbished bar and new offices and basement kitchen.

Gainford director Imran Khaliq described the Great Victoria as a “hidden gem” and said it was bought because of its heritage and potential.

“We are giving the Great Victoria a new lease of life by emphasising and enhancing its traditional features.

“It’s a fantastic place and we want to make it even better,” he said.