Heckfield Place still has no opening date following loss of joint GMs

10 November 2016 by
Heckfield Place still has no opening date following loss of joint GMs

A spokesperson for the 60-bedroom hotel, which is being developed within a late 18th century manor house, confirmed that husband and wife team of Henry and Char Gray had left "a few months ago", after joining the property nearly two years ago. The couple had previously worked together at Amanresorts.

Henry Gray is now based in Bangkok after being appointed vice-president of operations at Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas, in July 2016. The move marks a return to Six Senses for Gray, who worked for the luxury company as area director for Thailand from 2007 to 2009.

Barnaby Jones, who joined the property as executive chef in 2014, remains in place. A new general manager is yet to be appointed.

The Gray's departure is the latest in a long line of manager to leave Heckfield Place prior to its opening, which is now expected to take place in 2017, although there is no confirmed date.

Staff who have come and gone without a guest crossing the threshold include Charles Oak, appointed as the original general manager and now managing partner of hospitality consultants, the Quercus Partnership; Chris Staines, the first executive chef who now heads up the kitchen and food and beverage operation at the Abbey hotel in Bath; and Skye Gyngell, appointed culinary director in 2012 and now running Spring restaurant at Somerset House in London.

Heckfield Place is owned by Morningside Private Investors, a venture capital group founded in 1986 by the Chan family of Hong Kong.

Once used as a training centre and wedding venue, the property - set within 400 acres of grounds - was originally due to open as a hotel in April 2012.

The spokesperson for Heckfield Place said that the "long road" in launching the hotel was due to "no reason other than the owner is simply taking his time to ensure everything is perfect. Work is progressing well, the building work is continuing and all is on track to open next year".

Delayed Heckfield Place to open in spring 2015 >>

Heckfield Place faces further delays to allow for spa development >>
Heckfield Place to become ‘world-class' luxury retreat in Hampshire >>

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