Work has begun to transform the former Ebrington Barracks site in Londonderry into a new four-star hotel.
The move will see five buildings on the site on the banks of the River Foyle, including the clock tower, become part of a 152-bed hotel which will also include spa and leisure facilities and create 120 jobs once opened.
In total the project will cost £15 million project, £7.25 million of which has been provided by the Northern Ireland Investment Fund, which is managed by CBRE, and £1.75 million from Invest NI.
The development is being carried out by Ebrington Leisure Holdings and is expected to be completed by summer 2023.
“Our objective is to create and develop a 4 star Hotel to cater for the ever increasing popularity of our City as a must visit, exciting tourist destination,” Hotel Developer Cecil Doherty said. “We are excited for its future specifically and the Ebrington site overall with our creation of 120 jobs locally along with the unique opportunity to repurpose and revitalise iconic historically significant buildings. Ebrington’s future is very bright.”
The Northern Ireland Executive took responsibility for the Ebrington site in April 2016 and has invested over £17 million in its development since then, including in AMP, a start-up business hub. Grade A office space is also planned.
First Minister Paul Givan and Deputy First Minister Michele O’Neill both visited the site to mark the commencement of construction on the hotel and the opening of AMP.
“I applaud the developers of the Ebrington Hotel for their investment in the city, and indeed everyone playing a role in creating a better tomorrow,” Paul Givan said. “While acknowledging the financial investment, it’s important to recognise the individuals and organisations which have contributed in so many ways with their time, creativity and energy.”
Michelle O’Neill also welcomed the move.
“The commencement of construction on the Ebrington Hotel is a milestone day for Derry,” she said. “This major investment will create jobs both during the construction phase, and after the hotel has opened.
“We have made great progress in the development of the Ebrington site and, together with the Grade A Office space due to be completed soon, this new hotel will bring a renewed vibrancy and a real boost to the regional economy. I offer my congratulations to the developers and all who have played a part in getting us to this point.”
Ryan Williams, director in AMP said, the facility will allow the start-up community in Derry to flourish.
“We are delighted that the Ministers formally opened the AMP today as Derry’s first privately funded growth incubator. We believe the project represents a new ecology for Tech entrepreneurs in the city. The project reflects superb partnership working with The Executive Office and we’re delighted to report the building is 95% occupied with some of the fastest growing businesses in NI.”
