London hotel expansion ‘on course’ for 2012 Olympics
More than 1,600 new hotel rooms are expected to open in London this year.
Visit London has forecast growth levels matching those of the boom years of the late 1990s.
The capital’s tourist agency said almost 10,900 rooms are likely to become available by 2010 with a further 9,000 awaiting confirmation of completion dates.
Properties due to open this year include two Hiltons and a new hotel next to the Theatre Royal Haymarket from Firmdale, operatr of the Covent Garden and Charlotte Street hotels.
A Yotel cabin-style hotel is due to open at Heathrow and a new ‘quality budget’ chain Quest, created by Pret a Manger’s founder, is to make its debut.
Visit London chief executive James Bidwell said: “This growth in hotel development is excellent news and keeps in line with targets set in the London Plan. Winning the right to host the 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games may well have a transformational effect and ensure a lasting legacy for the hotel industry.”
Report by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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