A LONDON-based property group has said it will begin work on a new 276-bedroom hotel next to Titanic Belfast this spring.
The JMK Group was granted planning permission for the Hamilton Dock project on Thursday night. When completed in the summer of 2021, it will become one of the biggest hotels in Belfast.
The family-run business, headed by John Kajani, is currently embarking on a significant expansion on the island of Ireland.
Along with its four London hotels, it runs the Holiday Inn Express on Dublin's O'Connell Street and the Waterford Marina Hotel. It's building two more in Dublin city centre and a 421-bed Holiday Inn at Dublin Airport.
In a statement reacting to Thursday’s planning decision, Mr Kajani said he was eager to progress with the group’s investment in the area.
“Belfast has become a destination-of-choice, particularly for families and city-break enthusiasts, and we are thrilled with the opportunity to support the thriving economic growth of the City’s tourism industry.”
He said the hotel, which will include a rooftop bar, will include 100 family rooms.
The JMK Group has yet to announce the franchise which will operate the hotel, but the company said it would be an international brand. JMK has previously signed agreements with Holiday Inn and Hampton by Hilton.
“Ideally located on Hamilton Dock, our hotel will welcome visitors of the Titanic Quarter, as well as those visiting the wider Queen’s island, waterfront and Belfast City,” said the JMK chairman.
“We have given thorough consideration to identifying a suitable operator who can deliver a high quality guest experience and cater to families and solo travellers alike.
“We look forward to introducing our chosen brand of the hotel in due course and begin construction on this new landmark for the Titanic Quarter.”
Brian Kelly, director of the project’s planning consultancy, Turley, said: “The approval of the new hotel on Hamilton Dock marks a major milestone for the ongoing development of the Titanic Quarter.
“We are pleased to see Belfast City Council support our client’s ambitions to deliver high calibre accommodation in the area and nurture further growth for the local tourism sector.”
