Cynera Rodricks

🏨 Whitbread secured planning permission on 28 October 2025 for a new 174-room Premier Inn hotel east of Cork city centre. Construction starts in early 2026. The aim is to reach 5,000 rooms across Ireland, up from over 800 rooms in six hotels currently. The first Cork property opened two years prior at Morrisons Quay. Future developments include Dublin sites at O’Connell and Jervis Streets opening in 2027, with more underway in regional locations.

🏨 Criterion Capital received planning approval from Wandsworth Council to transform the former Morley’s department store in Tooting into a Zedwell hotel. The development will retain the historic façade, adding 92 hotel rooms, retail, and food outlets. The project supports Criterion's reuse-first strategy, focusing on waste reduction and local regeneration. Construction timelines are yet to be announced. Halima Aziz, Criterion Hospitality's head, emphasizes the adaptive reuse philosophy and economic impact on the area.

📍 Kirklees Council approved plans on October 2023 to redevelop Huddersfield’s George Hotel. Rooms will increase from 91 to 108, preserving its architectural heritage. The Grade II-listed hotel will include a bar, restaurant, gym, and conference facilities, operated by Radisson Red. This is part of Huddersfield's town centre regeneration, alongside The Light at Kingsgate and Our Cultural Heart projects. Councillor Graham Turner highlighted its impact on the local economy and visitor attraction.

🎧 Caledonian Edinburgh reopened its Caley Bar on Princes Street on 1 November after a refurbishment by Cunningham McLean. The renovation, inspired by Japan's jazz kissa, includes vinyl turntables and new seating. The bar offers a new cocktail menu with local ingredients, including the Birch drink, and small dishes. Owner Henderson Park and operator Klarent Hospitality led the investment. This relaunch is part of the hotel's ongoing updates while maintaining its distinguished reputation.

🌎 Davidson Hospitality Group has expanded into Europe, adding Ragdale Hall Spa in Leicestershire, UK, to its portfolio. Ragdale Hall Spa spans 13 acres, with 93 rooms and suites, featuring 11,400 sq ft of spa facilities, six indoor pools, and four restaurants. Awarded Best Spa for Wellness 2025, this adults-only retreat focuses on wellness. Davidson manages 84 hotels globally. The group plans further expansion in Europe, targeting upscale and luxury hotels, mirroring its US growth strategy.

🏠 The Sloane Club in London reopened after a £20 million refurbishment. Over two years, led by Neena Jivraj-Stevenson and Anna Jackson, the club features new interiors by Russell Sage Studio. Key additions include Lila, a 251m² restaurant, and Venus dining room. The project extends into 2025 with 56 bedrooms, 10 suites, and new dining options. Founded in 1922, it’s owned by Queensway and Clearbell Capital. New leadership includes Clare Lusher and Robert Rodier Gaggl.