Ruby Hotels has moved one step closer to securing a new 300-bedroom hotel on one of Edinburgh's busiest streets.
A planning application has now been submitted to the City of Edinburgh Council detailing plans to build the boutique hotel with a rooftop bar on Princes Street, offering sublime views of the castle.
Following initial proposals last year, Hunter REIM confirmed that it has submitted plans to the council which would see Ruby Hotel's first Scottish luxury hotel built on the historic street.
READ MORE: Opening of Edinburgh Stockbridge Market delayed after tree falls and crushes stalls
The development will be the largest single investment in Princes Street since the Johnnie Walker Experience opened in September 2021.
The proposal from Hunter REIM and Ruby Hotels has been subject to a significant public engagement last year that included two major consultation events and is the latest major department store vacancy to be subject to redevelopment on Princes Street.
The hotel is expected to open in 2026, subject to planning. The proposed hotel will enjoy stunning views across Princes Street Gardens, the Ross Theatre and to Edinburgh Castle and will adapt and add to the buildings that were previously home to Zara, Next and Russell and Bromley.
It is hoped that the building work can begin next year. Speaking about the proposals Julian Mors, Group Director of Ruby Hotels said, “Edinburgh is one of the most vibrant tourism destinations in Europe and Ruby Hotels looks forward to creating a must visit destination for residents and visitors in the heart of the city.
"We’re delighted to be able to bring the Ruby brand of affordable luxury to Scotland’s capital."
Founded in 2013, the Group already operates 15 Ruby hotels, with a further 19 hotels under construction or in the planning phase. Ruby is expanding into Asia with the joint venture Ruby Asia, founded in 2018.
READ NEXT:
William and Kate actors spotted in Scottish town filming last season of The Crown
Midlothian thugs tattooed and attacked autistic man with a bottle as he slept
The brutal Edinburgh public torture device used on those guilty of 'gossiping'
'Large scale disturbance' onboard Edinburgh Lothian Bus as teen girl arrested
Edinburgh man arrested near Bute House for 'acting suspiciously' as street taped off
