Search is on for international hotel operator for prime Plymouth site

The hunt is on for an international brand hotel operator to develop a major new hotel and mixed use development on a prime site in Plymouth.

JLL hotels and hospitality group, which has been appointed by Plymouth City Council to market the site told The Caterer that a number of potential bidders are already registering their interest.

Michael Easton, director of JLL, said: "We have already had a number of approaches from interested parties. This is a prime site of 0.9 hectares in a city which is under-resourced for hotels."

He said the branding, design and construction of the hotel were key considerations. "We are looking for an international brand. In addition, the hotel will be very visible as you approach from the sea and so the design must do justice to the location. It's also important the development is completed by 2020 when Plymouth celebrates the Mayflower 400 International Commemorations."

Easton said the development, which will also include full business and conference facilities within the hotel, is part of wider plans for the city's regeneration, including the construction of a £5m Plymouth History Centre.

The site on Cliff Road by the Hoe and overlooking Plymouth Sound, which was formerly occupied by the Quality hotel, was bought by the council in January 2016.

Plymouth City Council cabinet member for assets and finance, Mark Lowry, said: "We have taken a problem building and are making an incredible opportunity that the whole city stands to gain from. Appointing JLL is another step in the right direction to attracting the right developer, who can bring in world class hotel operators."

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