Common star rating scheme agreed
A star rating scheme for hotels across England, Scotland and Wales is to be introduced next year.
The common set of standards for grading accommodation has been thrashed out by respective tourist boards and motoring organisations the AA and RAC.
The new grading is to replace schemes run by each individual body which have long been criticised as being confusing for users. The common standards have been jointly created by all organisations.
Following annual assessments starting in January, hotels and guest accommodation will be represented by between one and five stars, with higher rating awarded for improved quality.
Accommodation will be split into three categories: Hotel, Guest Accommodation and Budget Hotel, although budget chains will not be star-rated “because of their strong branding”.
Hotels will have five sub categories such as Metro Hotel, Country House Hotel, Small Hotel, and Town House Hotel. Guest accommodation has six sub categories, including Bed & Breakfast, Guest House, Farmhouse, Inn and Restaurant with Rooms.
In addition to the annual inspections, full overnight assessments will take place every three years, according to the tourist boards and motoring organisations.
The new star-rating scheme will be “introduced progressively” following the start of inspections in the new year
A statement said: “The new common set of standards follows extensive consumer and industry research indicating the need to clarify and simplify the existing ratings.
“They involve the benchmark for the consumer to make an informed choice and will also make it easier for tourism bodies and the travel industry to promote serviced accommodation both at home and overseas.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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