Durham’s Radisson Blu shortlisted for community business award

The Radisson Blu Hotel has been shortlisted for the Community Business of the Year Award by the North East Chamber of Commerce (NECC).

This recognition coincides with a major individual milestone for its leadership, as general manager Stuart Lloyd has been crowned Durham’s Citizen of the Year, following a vote of all councillors at Durham’s Parish council meeting.

Stuart Lloyd, General Manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Durham, has just been named Durham’s Citizen of the Year by the city’s Parish Council. (Image: Supplied)

Mr Lloyd said: “The Radisson Blu is part of the fabric of Durham, and we take that responsibility seriously.

“Being shortlisted by the NECC is a testament to our entire team’s dedication to this city.

“On a personal level, to be named Citizen of the Year is an incredible honour. Durham is a unique, vibrant community and I am proud to play a part in its story.”

Over the past seven years, Mr Lloyd has led efforts to make the hotel a key supporter of the local economy and wider community.

Radisson Blu Hotel Durham is celebrating a landmark year of community impact (Image: Supplied)

The hotel supports Durham Women’s Football Club, has a long-standing partnership with St Cuthbert’s Hospice, and is actively involved in city events such as the Lumiere light festival.

It is also a lead sponsor of the Durham City Run, which begins just outside the hotel.

In addition to its community outreach, Radisson Blu is a member of both the Durham Business Group and the city’s Business Improvement District (BID).

These partnerships aim to shape the economic future of the region.

The NECC shortlisting describes the hotel as an “active member” of the community, recognising its commitment to investing time and resources back into County Durham.

As the hotel prepares for the upcoming NECC Awards ceremony, the recognition highlights what it describes as a year of “hospitality with a conscience”.