Holiday Inn Sunderland officially opens as part of “huge” regeneration project

The “much-anticipated” Holiday Inn, located in Keel Square, Sunderland City Centre will officially open its doors on Wednesday December 14, creating 50 jobs.

Officially unveiled by the Mayor of Sunderland, Councillor Alison Smith, the hotel is part of Riverside Sunderland, an “ambitious” development aiming to elevate the city centre with a mixed-use urban quarter.

The hotel, developed and operated by Madison Cairn, boasts a “unique and multi-faceted” offering, appealing to both leisure and business guests by providing 120 air-conditioned bedrooms, Restful Nights beds, a fully equipped gym, as well as a “chic” open lobby that is available to the local community as well as guests.

The open lobby space offers all-day dining, high-speed Wi-Fi and serves Starbucks, making it an “ideal space” for local people to work and host business meetings or interviews. Adjacent to Sunderland City Hall and a short walk to Bridges Shopping Centre, the hotel is also perfectly placed for those visiting the city for overnight breaks.

The four-storey building is conveniently located close to several public car parks and just a three minutes’ walk to local public transport, making the hotel accessible from Newcastle, North and South Shields. Sunderland’s popular twin sandy beaches Roker and Seaburn can be found just two miles from the hotel.

Rob Dixon, general manager at Holiday Inn Sunderland, commented: “The opening of Holiday Inn Sunderland plays a major role in the development and regeneration of Riverside Sunderland, establishing it as a prime destination for both business and leisure.

“The hotel’s offering is strong and varied, catering for the local community as well as those visiting from outside of the city, with a modern but relaxed feel. We’re thrilled to see the plans become a reality after lots of work and planning and we are confident that we can provide top quality facilities to all guests, from overnight visitors to corporate groups.”

Councillor Alison Smith, Mayor of Sunderland, said: “It’s a pleasure to officially open the Holiday Inn at Keel Square, which has already made such a positive difference to the city centre skyline and, I have no doubt, will support the revival of Riverside Sunderland as the area draws in more visitors for business or pleasure.

“The transformation of Sunderland city centre over the last few years has been phenomenal. With leisure venues like the Auditorium complete, Culture House to come, and lots of bars, restaurants and eateries on their way, this hotel is right at the heart of this regenerated quarter, ready to warmly welcome people to our fast-changing city.”

By Matthew Neville – Correspondent, Bdaily

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