Plans have been submitted to Belfast City Council for a boutique hotel with a rooftop pool in Belfast city centre.
The proposal outlines plans to develop a luxurious hospitality scheme at 34-44 Bedford Street and 4-6 Clarence Street under renowned hotel brand, The Dean, operated by Press Up Hospitality Group.
It will comprise of 91 bedrooms, Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace and a 3 x 13m rooftop pool – a first for the Group’s portfolio of urban hotels.
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The applicant is named as Bedford Way Limited and is controlled by Oakmount, sister company to Press Up Group with the development expected to create 170 full-time jobs.
Jessica Carlyle-Clarke, Head of Business Development & New Opportunities UK, said: "We are delighted to move forward with plans to bring The Dean to Belfast – a capital city that is as vibrant and fresh as the brand itself.
We are all about celebrating iconic cities, creating beautiful spaces within them that complement old and new.
"This site is one of cultural significance, right next to the Ulster Hall, a venue that speaks to Belfast’s built heritage. This is an exciting time for the Group as it looks to develop its footprint across the UK and Ireland."
TODD architects has been appointed to transform the site on Bedford Street which was originally built circa 1865 and historically classed as the beginning of the Linen Quarter - which had the world-famous nickname of ‘Linenopolis’.
Bedford Way Limited was advised by local firm, Finch in scoping out potential sites in the city centre.
The three-storey 19th-century building has been home to many notable businesses over the years including Larry’s Piano Bar, Deanes Deli and currently houses the popular Harlem Café.
While planning permission is being sought, the building’s current owners will continue to accommodate existing tenants for as long as possible.
Neil McShane, of property consultants INPRIO, represents the current owners and commented on the proposals: "The owners have been custodians of this family jewel for many years but recognise that they need to pass the baton to a developer in order to preserve the building and realise its full potential.
"The future of this unique building is extremely important to them and whilst there have been numerous approaches over the years, for various uses, they believe the plans for a boutique hotel is the best way to fulfil their determination to rejuvenate the existing building."
The Dean, with locations in Dublin, Cork and Galway, is one of Ireland’s leading boutique, design-led hotels - each location has a number of unique features including Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace, luxury POWER Gym, and an art collection which is curated to celebrate local artists.
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