BUDGET hotel bosses are set to strike gold by opening a new multi-million pound Premier Inn in Glasgow just weeks before the Commonwealth Games.

The new hotel on the banks of the Clyde was originally due to launch ­after the city hosts its biggest ever sports event but today it was revealed the newest addition to Glasgow's hospitality sector will start trading in just two weeks time.

And the Evening Times was given an exclusive sneak preview of the city's sixth Premium Inn with room rates from £29.

The £11million, 180-bedroomed hotel, at Pacific Quay, is next to the television studios of the BBC and STV and opposite the Hydro Arena and the SECC.

General manager Barry Halfpenny said: "Opening in time for the Games has been our aim since plans were first approved for the site, which everyone ­involved in the project has worked tirelessly to make happen.

"The hotel is in a fantastic location with incredible views both of the city and along the river, which we are confident not only business and leisure travellers will be impressed with but locals too."

This will be the 20th Premier Inn for the Glasgow area. There are already five operating in the city centre at George Street, Buchanan Galleries, Argyle Street, Ballater Street, and Charing Cross.

The Pacific Quay hotel will employ 65 staff including receptionists, restaurant, housekeeping and maintenance workers. Four apprentices are also being recruited to work in the ­six-storey inn.

The budget hotel will feature the chain's biggest eating area north of the Border. The Thyme Restaurant will seat 180 diners and overlook the Clyde.

There will also be a 20-seater terraced area as well as two glass-to-ceiling meeting rooms.

gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk