Go-ahead for £75m mixed-use hotel scheme
A £75m hotel and mixed-use development is set to transform the skyline close to Birmingham’s iconic Mailbox.
Proposals for the 25-storey Queensgate development, which will front Suffolk Street Queensway, have been approved by Birmingham City Council.
The scheme, submitted by Irish developer Manor Park Developments working with D5 Architects, includes a 259-bedroom hotel and 144-bedroom apart-hotel.
Mike Coffey, managing director of associated company New Manor Developments, said: “This is great news – not just for the parties involved but for Birmingham as well.
“These aren’t pie in the sky proposals. We’ve a long-term lease already signed with leading European serviced-apartment operator, StayCity.”
The name of the hotel operator is expected to be announced shortly.
“Queensgate will sit comfortably among Birmingham’s jewels in the city’s ongoing architectural renaissance. It will literally transform the city’s skyline on the west side into the bargain,” added Mr Coffey.
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New Manor Developments, which is also behind the Boxworks development in Birmingham’s famous Jewellery Quarter, has predicted the project will create around 500 new jobs, both in construction and the end-user phases.
“The fact that all of the space has been pre-let is a sure-fire sign of confidence returning to the region’s property market,” added Mr Coffey. “The project will be another example of construction aiding the economic rejuvenation of Birmingham city centre.”
Andrew Fowler, property director for StayCity, said: “Choosing Queensgate was an easy decision because of its prime location – a moment’s walk from the soon to be refurbished New Street Station. There are very few opportunities left to create a distinctive landmark hotel and we consider we’ve got one of them.
“The location ticks all the boxes and will appeal to our business and leisure customers alike; stepping out of the building will put them on the doorstep of the main shopping, entertainment and nightlife areas as well some of Birmingham’s best cultural destinations. The main business and financial districts are also just a short walk.”
New Manor Developments expects construction to begin in March 2011 with completion estimated in early 2013.
Acquisition agents Maguire Jackson advised the purchasers with McNaughton Associates advising the vendor.
