Today’s news in brief – 24/1/24
Glasgow City Council has approved the construction of the Cheval Maison – West Regent hotel, set to open in 2026. The hotel, operated by Cheval Maison and managed by owner 141WRS, will feature 70 apartments comprising 27 standard studios, 15 large studios, 23 one-bedroom apartments, and five two-bedroom apartments. It marks Glasgow’s first luxury serviced apartment complex, complete with a ground-floor restaurant, gym, lounge area, and a rooftop terrace bar. Located in Blythswood Hill, the development adheres to sustainability principles and contemporary design within the central Glasgow conservation area. Cheval Maison, with existing locations in London, Edinburgh, and Dubai, anticipates further property announcements in 2024.
A recent analysis by UKHospitality Scotland reveals the financial challenges faced by hospitality businesses due to insufficient support from the Scottish Government. Scottish pubs are expected to be £15,000 worse off on average compared to their English counterparts, while medium-sized hotels face a £30,000 deficit. Larger businesses are denied support capped at £110,000. The absence of a business rates relief scheme in December further exacerbates the situation, leaving around 10,000 hospitality businesses without financial assistance. UKHospitality Scotland urges the Scottish Government to rectify the situation by introducing a 75% business rates relief scheme, emphasising the critical role of these establishments in local communities.
Ali and Jo Dixon, owners of Embleton Spa Hotel, have expanded their portfolio with the acquisition of The Royal Hotel in Dockray, Lake District National Park. The 10-bedroom hotel, purchased from FRP Advisory Trading for £945,000, includes a 60-cover restaurant and bar, along with owner’s and staff accommodation. The Dixons express their excitement about upgrading the hotel and revitalising it in the coming year. The sale, facilitated by Colliers, underscores the charm of the rural village of Dockray, providing a strategic location near Ullswater lake.
Apex Hotels has welcomed Stewart Campbell as its new non-executive director. With over 20 years of experience in the hotel industry, Campbell, formerly managing director of a major hotel management company, has operated and overseen a diverse range of hotels across the UK and Ireland. Apex Hotels, currently in an expansion phase, values Campbell’s operational expertise, acquisition experience, and ownership interests in various hotel assets. Ian Springford, chairman of Apex Hotels, expresses excitement about the growth prospects and looks forward to collaborating with Campbell, who shares the company’s values of trust, passion, friendliness, and teamwork.
