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Developers outline plan to convert Seaford Inn to Holiday Inn Express; council praises progress
Summary
Representatives for the Seaford Inn told council they acquired the property Jan. 26 and have completed emergency stabilization work (roof, secured windows, fencing), contracted sprinkler and electrical work, and are pursuing Holiday Inn Express & Suites franchise approval with a tentative completion target around mid-2027.
Representatives of the Seaford Inn presented a redevelopment update to Seaford’s mayor and council on March 24, saying they plan to convert the property to a Holiday Inn Express & Suites and have begun stabilization and franchise steps.
The presenter listed actions taken since the Jan. 26 settlement: roof replacement beginning March 3, securing first-floor windows and fencing, installing temporary solar-powered cameras, removing trash from parking areas, and engaging engineers for sprinkler and interior work. “It's going to be the Holiday Inn Express and Suites,” the presenter said, describing franchise prototype requirements for exterior color and design.
The presenter said franchise disclosure and approval timelines impose mandatory review windows, and that some franchise steps include a 6-month mandatory period and additional review intervals. He described work already contracted or completed: engineering for sprinkler design, electrical permit issuance (noted as obtained on the fourth), a fire protection contract awarded, and payment of franchise fees. He added the developer is coordinating with town electric and fire staff to restore power and submit sprinkler plans for approval.
Council members praised visible cleanup and progress. Councilman Mike Bradley commended on-the-ground activity: “I drove by 1 Sunday and, you know, it was colder in the Dickens and these guys were up on the roof working their butts off, and I was very impressed.” Council members also asked about an overall completion timeframe and were told the franchise requires multiple review steps that could extend to 2027 as an outside timeline, but the presenter said the team hopes to move faster where possible.
What this means: developers will submit final franchise plans to the town for review and approval of interior and exterior details; they will also complete required fire and electrical approvals before significant interior renovation. Council did not take formal action but expressed support and asked staff to monitor required permits and inspections.
Clarifying details provided to council included the dates of acquisition (Jan. 26), roof work beginning March 3, awarded contracts for sprinkler systems and electrical permits, and payment of the franchise fee on Feb. 23.
