UK: Newcastle City Council has approved plans for a dual branded Marriott project which will include a 96-key Residence Inn.
Planners have given the green light for the demolition of Thomson House, the former home of Reach plc titles The Chronicle, The Journal and the Sunday Sun.
Earlier this year, Reach unveiled £24 million proposals to replace Thomson House’s print hall and office building with two hotels – a 198-bedroom Moxy hotel, including 10 deluxe rooms, and a 96-studio Residence Inn aparthotel. The project will be the first Residence Inn in the north of England. The Moxy Hotel will be the brand’s fifth UK hotel and first in the north.
Cllr Ged Bell, the authority’s cabinet member for employment and investment, said: “Many big names in the world of media started their careers there and doubtless the building will hold fond memories for generations of staff who worked in its newsrooms, print works and advertising offices. But times have changed, and the building has lain empty since owners Reach plc moved to new offices two years ago. While a prominent building, Thomson House does jar somewhat with the surrounding historic architecture. Its demolition will make way for a more attractive mixed-use development featuring a hotel, aparthotel and bar.”
“This £24 million of private sector investment will be a welcome boost to the current regeneration of the Bigg Market, creating 150 construction jobs and an additional 40 full-time jobs for local people when the hotel opens its doors in about two years from now.
It’s a significant investment that will not only boost the city’s tourism and hotel sector with new training opportunities but also bring in guests who will spend money in the many shops, restaurants and bars in the area, and I welcome it.”
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