The former Courtyard Hotel, opposite Posta offices, and the Nakuru City ultra-modern fire station, is currently undergoing renovation to be converted into a parking space following its sale to neighboring Merica Hotel, according to sources familiar with the transaction.

Since its closure in 2017, the hotel has accumulated dust at the entrance, which is often stirred up by light winds or the feet of passers-by, who come to shield themselves from the intense sun or rainfall.

Inside, layers of dust and dry leaves, blown in from nearby trees, have also settled in the dilapidated building.

In November 2024, Mtaa Wangu followed the hotel's history and found that its collapse was associated with a 'no spend culture' in Nakuru.

Aerial shot of the former Courtyard hotel before renovations.

Photo credit: Leleti Jassor/Mtaa Wangu

However, since the start of December 2025, masons have been demolishing the remains of the run-down structure, while others have been doing some touch-ups to pave the way for the 'new' development.

Sources say that the hotel’s owners, the Gilanis family, sold the property to Merica Hotel, enabling Merica to expand its enclosed parking area to accommodate vehicles for hotel guests and visitors.

This may reflect the growing pressure on space in Nakuru's town centre, where rising vehicle numbers and limited land have made parking a persistent challenge for businesses.

For the popular hotel, the additional parking capacity is expected to ease congestion around its premises and improve accessibility for clients, particularly during peak business and conference periods.

Ariel view of the former Courtyard hotel.

Photo credit: Leleti Jassor/Mtaa Wangu

The fate of the Courtyard Hotel reflects a gradual change in Nakuru's urban landscape, where older properties are increasingly being redeveloped or repurposed to meet current demands.

Neither the management of Merica Hotel nor representatives of the former owners have publicly commented on the sale.

New business set to occupy former Courtyard Hotel space

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Leleti Jassor