AT least 200 jobs will be created at the proposed world class hotel and golf complex at Tottenham House in Savernake Forest, it was revealed this week.

The £70 million scheme will provide an assured future for the Grade I-listed building that is on the English Heritage list of properties at risk.

The prospect of hundreds of new jobs has been widely welcomed in the town.

Chris Davey, who represent the Federation of Small Businesses and heads the economy group of the Marlborough Area Development Trust, said the local economy could benefit in a number of ways. As well as providing employment in the area, it was to be hoped, said Mr Davey, that supplies like food and drink would be sourced locally.

"The knock-on effect of buying locally would have a cascade effect on the local economy and would help a range of local businesses," he said.

Coun John Booth, district councillor for Burbage, which is the nearest large community to Tottenham House, said: "Any new jobs in this area will be welcome."

Coun Booth said he had heard, however, that because of low unemployment in the Marlborough area, workers for the new hotel might have to be bussed in from Swindon.

Coun Chris Humphries, leader of Kennet District Council and chairman of the Marlborough Community Area Strategic Partnership, said: "Anything to boost the economy of the Marlborough area and provide new jobs will be welcome."

Bob Langton, spokesman for Golf Club Investment Holdings, the consorium of two UK companies and one American behind the project, confirmed the figure of 200 jobs this week.

Plans show the hotel with 148 luxurious guest suites. "Some of them will be in the refurbished main building and the rest will be new build in the gardens behind," Mr Langton said.

The 18-hole golf course will be designed by the top golfing commentator Peter Alliss.

All the new building will be tucked away behind Tottenham House and the golf course will use land sloping away from the rear of the house. The view of the early 19th century house, the family seat of the Marquis of Ailesbury, with its grand park in front, will remain untouched.

Mr Langton said: "This scheme guarantees the future of Tottenham House. It is the long-term solution to the upkeep of the house."