InterContinental Hotels Group plans to open its second property in London in time for the 2012 Olympic Games.
The 254-room, six storey InterContinental London Westminster is set to open in late 2011.
IHG has signed a 20 year management contract with Splendid Hotel Group for the new hotel which is to occupy the former Queen Anne’s Chambers, originally built in the 19th century.
The 120,000 square foot freehold site close to New Scotland Yard is currently used as office and retail space.
Splendid Hotel Group is an existing IHG franchisee with Holiday Inn hotels in Manchester and London. The new signing is its biggest acquisition to date.
IHG EMEA president Kirk Kinsell said: “Despite the tough economic times the fact that we continue to sign major deals is testament to the strength of our brands. We’re adding 5,000 rooms in the UK in the next two to three years.
“The InterContinental London Westminster will open in time for the Olympic Games in London in 2012.”
Splendid Hotels Group managing partner Shiraz Boghani said: “This is by far the largest project we’ve taken on.
“We specialise in providing the best hotel accommodation in major cities and the new InterContinental London Westminster will be a great addition to our portfolio.
“The strength of the InterContinental brand and the site’s location, close to some of the city’s most famous attractions, makes it the perfect deal for us.”
by Phil Davies
