Member Article

New Sunderland hotel could create 70 new jobs, if plans gain approval

Newcastle-headquartered hospitality operator The Cairn Group has submitted a proposal for the development of a four star hotel in Sunderland city centre, which is anticipated to create 70 jobs if approved

An owner and operator of 31 hotels and over 30 bars and restaurants UK-wide, the business is currently liaising with the city council over the Keel Square plans.

The council has received application for the build of the 120 room hotel, which would include ground floor commercial units with opportunities for food and beverage outlets.

Cairn Group has previously led several hotel regeneration projects investing in the region, including Holiday Inn Jesmond, Holiday Inn Scotch Corner, Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, Cairn Hotel Newcastle, Rooms Inn Newcastle and DoubleTree by Hilton Newcastle International Airport.

The group also recently added Redworth Hall Hotel in Durham to its portfolio as part of a major multiple acquisition of five hotels across the UK, against a list price of £75m.

Richard Warren, Cairn Group finance director, said: “We are working closely with Sunderland City Council and support its vision for the improvement of the city centre. The submission of planning permission for this landmark hotel is a very important milestone for this project.

“With a focus on pulling visitors to the centre of the city, the hotel will provide retail space opportunities for local businesses as well as bringing many job prospects. We are committed to investing in the region and are excited about the potential of this ambitious project.”

Cllr Mel Speding, Cabinet Secretary at Sunderland City Council, added: “As part of the planned regeneration of Sunderland city centre, we have been looking to attract a high quality hotel development to this flagship site for some time.

“Now the planning application has been submitted, it will be considered as with all applications on its merits and in accordance with national and local planning policies.

“Our regeneration plans have been outlined to ensure that our city centre is a welcoming destination for residents and visitors, whilst adding vibrancy, supporting existing businesses and creating opportunities for new businesses and private sector investment as a principle. We believe a quality hotel development on this site will help us achieve this aim.”