News

Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council’s Strategic Partner, RS Rock Holdings, has marked a major milestone with the relaunch of the Dover Marina Hotel & Spa, now part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection. The multimillion-pound transformation underscores the company’s commitment to quality, investment, and community benefit — values that lie at the heart of its partnership with CWEIC.

The Grade II-listed Regency seafront hotel has been extensively refurbished, with 122 rooms including luxury suites, a new reception area and bar, rejuvenated spa facilities, wedding and conference spaces, and the introduction of Marco Pierre White’s English Chophouse. The relaunch was celebrated with a major event attended by distinguished guests, including Hilton’s Vice President for Development UK and Ireland, Paul Blackmore, and former Miss India, Simran Ahuja.

Paul Blackmore praised the transformation, noting: “You have all played your part and you can all take pride in what we have achieved.”

The investment represents more than just a luxury upgrade. As Dover Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive David Foley highlighted during the event, the project has delivered significant benefits to the local economy and community: “Since acquiring this hotel some 15 years ago, Seelan and his team have restored, they have expanded, they have enhanced and they have totally transformed this hotel into a major attraction from which every trader in Dover — every citizen, every business in Dover — stands to benefit.”

Under the leadership of Managing Director Rajaseelan “Seelan” Kanagaratnam, RS Rock Holdings has expanded its hospitality portfolio in the UK and internationally, while maintaining a guiding ethos: to make life better for the people it touches. The Dover project stands as a showcase of this ethos in action, revitalising a historic building, strengthening the regional visitor economy, and creating a destination that reflects both heritage and modern hospitality standards.

As a Strategic Partner, RS Rock Holdings exemplifies the shared goals of the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council, which works to foster sustainable economic growth, investment, and enterprise across its network of members worldwide.

CWEIC recognises the relaunch of the Dover Marina Hotel & Spa as an inspiring example of how its Strategic Partners continue to create lasting value for communities, businesses, and the wider Commonwealth.