Commercial : Leisure & Hospitality News
Candy Coral cocktail bar in Manchester inspired by a Quick Kiss

Candy Coral cocktail bar in Manchester inspired by a Quick Kiss

Newly-opened Manchester bar The Morris has unveiled an eye-catching design scheme created by Up North Architects, which elevates its cocktail bar concept inspired by Crown Paints’ vivid Quick Kiss. Located on Thomas Street at the heart of Manchester’s vibrant nightlife scene, The Morris occupies a compact site but packs an

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Whitbread secures second Premier Inn location in Central Bath

Whitbread secures second Premier Inn location in Central Bath

UK’s largest hotel company signs agreement for lease with Frank Capital for prominent Lower Bristol Road site Whitbread plc, the UK’s largest hospitality business and owner of Premier Inn, has committed to opening a second Premier Inn hotel in Bath city centre after signing an agreement for lease with Frank

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Chopstix Brings Fresh Flavours to Hull City Centre

Chopstix Brings Fresh Flavours to Hull City Centre

Chopstix has opened a new restaurant in Hull, marking its first location in the Yorkshire city. Situated on the corner of King Edward Street and Jameson Street, the new store features the quick-service restaurant brand’s refreshed design identity and upgraded operational systems, creating a more efficient and engaging customer experience.

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Snap Fitness Celebrates 100th UK Gym as Expansion Continues

Snap Fitness Celebrates 100th UK Gym as Expansion Continues

Snap Fitness has marked a major milestone with the opening of its 100th UK gym in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, as the franchised operator continues its rapid nationwide expansion. Since launching its first UK site in Sittingbourne, Kent, in 2012, the brand has grown to 106 gyms across the UK and Ireland,

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Ridge and Partners’ planning team secures approval for UK’s first all-electric football stadium for Oxford United

Ridge and Partners’ planning team secures approval for UK’s first all-electric football stadium for Oxford United

Cherwell District Council has approved Oxford United Football Club’s planning application for the UK’s first all-electric powered football stadium. The new 16,000 capacity stadium will create a larger and permanent home for Oxford United, and will be the most sustainable mid-sized sports venue in the UK. Teams from multi-disciplinary built

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Better Green Living secures landmark canalside project at CO-OP Live Manchester

Better Green Living secures landmark canalside project at CO-OP Live Manchester

Sustainable refurbishment specialist, Better Green Living, has been appointed to design the new canalside development at the UK’s largest live indoor arena, Co-op Live in Manchester. The 2,000 sq ft multi-functional hospitality space will enhance the visitor experience, creating a vibrant social hub for concertgoers, event attendees, and the community.

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Wingstop Spreads Its Wings with Fifth Leeds Opening

Wingstop Spreads Its Wings with Fifth Leeds Opening

Wingstop has unveiled its fifth Leeds restaurant, opening at The Springs retail and leisure destination. The 3,014 sq ft venue offers the brand’s full menu of wings, tenders, burgers, and sides, alongside a range of drinks. The new branch joins Wingstop’s growing Leeds portfolio, which already includes locations at Cardigan

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Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Huddersfield has welcomed its first Chopstix restaurant as the popular Asian quick-service brand continues its rapid UK expansion. Opening this month on King Street, the new outlet is part of Chopstix’s strategy to grow in high-footfall areas, including busy high streets and major transport hubs. The Huddersfield launch follows several

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Firethorn breaks ground at Sackville Place development

Firethorn breaks ground at Sackville Place development

Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has broken ground at its Sackville Place development in central Dublin, with Stewart Construction appointed to deliver the 138 bedroom site.  Located off O’Connell Street in the heart of the Irish capital, the high-density hotel marks Stewart Construction’s first contract from Firethorn. 

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Latest Issue
Issue 332 : Sept 2025

Commercial : Leisure & Hospitality News

Candy Coral cocktail bar in Manchester inspired by a Quick Kiss

Candy Coral cocktail bar in Manchester inspired by a Quick Kiss

Newly-opened Manchester bar The Morris has unveiled an eye-catching design scheme created by Up North Architects, which elevates its cocktail bar concept inspired by Crown Paints’ vivid Quick Kiss. Located on Thomas Street at the heart of Manchester’s vibrant nightlife scene, The Morris occupies a compact site but packs an impressive creative punch. The venue spans two levels, with a traditional ground floor pub leading to an experimental first-floor cocktail bar offering the UK’s first sub-zero cocktails and next-generation carbonated creations. Up North Architects was tasked with ensuring guests felt an immediate transition from the classic pub environment to the innovative cocktail bar above – the solution for which was colour. The practice discovered the perfect shade at Crown Paint’s stand at Material Source Studio – a hub for northern architects to collaborate and interact with partners and suppliers. Patrick Thomas, Director at Up North Architects said: “We were looking for a ‘candy’ style shade to reflect The Morris’ playful, vibrant cocktail menu. We knew instantly that Crown’s ‘Quick Kiss’ was right for the project. It’s vivid, fun and it announces the cocktail bar’s presence in an unforgettable way.” Quick Kiss is part of Crown Paints’ Co palette, one of five Colour Insights 25/26 palettes designed to influence the creation of harmonious spaces, bringing a balance that can foster both productivity and relaxation. The full Colour Insights report was curated by Crown Paints to support architects and designers with evidence-based colour forecasting rooted in social and design shifts. Despite the venue’s compact scale, the colour was used strategically to make a bold statement, wrapping around the staircase to signal the magical experience awaiting up the stairs and continuing into the cocktail bar itself. The paint was specified in Crown Trade’s Clean Extreme Scrubbable Matt, a premium, stain-resistant emulsion. The paint allows for stains to be wiped away with ease, which is ideal for a busy bar environment. It can also withstand regular cleaning, whilst maintaining its rich colour and clean finish– ultimately reducing maintenance costs.  Richard Bailey, Architectural and Design Consultant at Crown Paints, said: “Quick Kiss is a fantastic example of how impactful colour can be in transforming a space. Our Colour Insights palettes are designed to help architects and designers feel confident making bold, future-focused decisions, and it’s brilliant to see Up North Architects bringing this to life so vividly at The Morris. “We always encourage creatives to visit us at Material Source Studio, where they can be inspired by our paints up close. Our stand features installations like our painted bench, for hands-on inspiration. It’s also a great opportunity to pick and choose from our Pure Paint Samples to support the development of moodboards and colour schemes.” Crown Paints has a dedicated presence at Material Source Studio in both Manchester and Glasgow, where architects and designers can gain inspiration, explore the full palette, and pick up a fan deck or Pure Paint Samples for their projects. Crown also regularly hosts events at both locations, including RIBA and BIID-approved CPDs to support professional development. For more information on the Crown Paints Colour Insights, please visit: Crown Trade paints visit: www.crownpaintsprofessional.com/colour/insights Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Whitbread secures second Premier Inn location in Central Bath

Whitbread secures second Premier Inn location in Central Bath

UK’s largest hotel company signs agreement for lease with Frank Capital for prominent Lower Bristol Road site Whitbread plc, the UK’s largest hospitality business and owner of Premier Inn, has committed to opening a second Premier Inn hotel in Bath city centre after signing an agreement for lease with Frank Capital for a prominent development site on Lower Bristol Road, BA2. The former Beazer House office building, currently vacant, will be demolished to make way for a new six-storey, 68,000 sq ft Premier Inn hotel. The latest-format hotel will feature 152-bedrooms alongside an on-site restaurant and bar on the ground floor. Located within a 10-minute walk of Bath Spa railway station and the city’s iconic Roman Baths, the site is ideally positioned to attract Premier Inn’s leisure guests. Bath welcomes approximately six million overnight and day visitors annually according to Bath and North East Somerset Council[1]. Construction of the new hotel is expected to begin in early 2026, with the hotel targeted to open in 2028. Upon completion, it will expand Premier Inn’s presence in Bath City Centre to two hotels and more than 250 affordable bedrooms. Paul Smith, Acquisition Manager for Whitbread, said:  “Securing a new location for our customers in Bath City Centre is a significant achievement in our south-west growth story. There is a well-known undersupply of budget hotel rooms in Bath, and this new location will help us to meet the consistently high, year-round demand we see for Premier Inn bedrooms in city. “Our guests are sure to love the prime, central location, just minutes from world-famous visitor attractions and Bath Spa train station, and we anticipate they will make a significant contribution to the city’s visitor and business economy through their spending during their stay.   “We are excited to get construction underway next year and add another superb location to our popular network of hotels in the south-west.” The Lower Bristol Road Premier Inn will feature a mix of Premier Inn’s latest format ‘standard’ rooms as well as its popular ‘enhanced’ Premier Plus bedrooms. Whitbread secured the opportunity to occupy the location following a competitive bidding process.   Natasha El Shazly, General Counsel at Frank Capital, said:   “We are delighted to have exchanged contracts with Whitbread and now look forward to working with the design team, led by TP Bennett, to deliver an exemplary new build hotel that is both respectful of its significant heritage context and forward thinking in its approach to sustainability.” In line with Whitbread’s sustainability programme, Force For Good, the new Premier Inn is being designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating and will be run solely on electricity generated from renewable sources. Whitbread has a published target to reduce the carbon emissions from its direct operations (Scope 1 and 2 emissions) to zero by 2040.  The acquisition of the Lower Road site is part of Whitbread’s ongoing expansion of Premier Inn and hub by Premier Inn in the UK and Ireland. The company currently offers its customers a choice of 850 locations, and more than 85,000 bedrooms, and sees the potential to grow its hotel network to 125,000 UK and Ireland rooms. Savills led the market engagement for Frank Capital. Whitbread was advised by Sisman Property Consultants. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Chopstix Brings Fresh Flavours to Hull City Centre

Chopstix Brings Fresh Flavours to Hull City Centre

Chopstix has opened a new restaurant in Hull, marking its first location in the Yorkshire city. Situated on the corner of King Edward Street and Jameson Street, the new store features the quick-service restaurant brand’s refreshed design identity and upgraded operational systems, creating a more efficient and engaging customer experience. The opening is the latest in a wave of expansion for Chopstix, following recent launches in Brighton, Wolverhampton, and Huddersfield. The brand’s nationwide growth has been fuelled by investment from QSR group QSRP in 2023, which continues to back Chopstix’s UK development while also supporting exploration into European opportunities. Menashe Sadik, co-founder and director at Chopstix, said:“We’re delighted to open in Hull, bringing our bold Chinese-inspired flavours to another vibrant UK city centre. With its strong footfall and dynamic retail core, Hull is a fantastic location for our next restaurant, and we are confident it will perform strongly within our portfolio. This expansion reflects the momentum behind the brand as we continue to grow across the country.” The Hull launch further reinforces Chopstix’s position as one of the UK’s fastest-growing quick-service restaurant brands, with a strategy focused on high-traffic locations and delivering an accessible, flavour-led menu to a broad customer base. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Snap Fitness Celebrates 100th UK Gym as Expansion Continues

Snap Fitness Celebrates 100th UK Gym as Expansion Continues

Snap Fitness has marked a major milestone with the opening of its 100th UK gym in Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, as the franchised operator continues its rapid nationwide expansion. Since launching its first UK site in Sittingbourne, Kent, in 2012, the brand has grown to 106 gyms across the UK and Ireland, outpacing all other franchised gym operators in terms of new openings over the past three years. Its latest wave of growth is being driven by both long-standing franchisees scaling their investment and new partners joining the business at record levels. Kevin Yates, CEO of Snap Fitness EMEA, said: “This is a great landmark for Snap Fitness in the UK which we’re all really proud of. So much hard work has gone into getting the brand to where it is today and we’re all really excited about the direction we’re heading in. We have a fantastic network of franchisees and we’re striving to continue providing them with a product that stands out in the market. Investing in our member experience is a key priority for us and with more technology being integrated into our offering, as well as the upcoming launch of Reformer Pilates, the future is bright for us.” Alongside this landmark opening, Snap Fitness has released its latest property requirements as it targets further locations nationwide. The operator is seeking units between 6,000 and 12,500 sq ft, with a preference for retail park or roadside settings that benefit from nearby free parking. Founded in 2003, Snap Fitness now operates more than 1,000 gyms across over 20 countries and has established itself as the sixth-largest gym operator in the UK and Ireland. It was recently recognised as the fastest-growing UK gym franchise in the 2025 State of the UK Fitness Industry Report, with membership increasing by 18% year-on-year against an industry backdrop of 5.4%. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Ridge and Partners’ planning team secures approval for UK’s first all-electric football stadium for Oxford United

Ridge and Partners’ planning team secures approval for UK’s first all-electric football stadium for Oxford United

Cherwell District Council has approved Oxford United Football Club’s planning application for the UK’s first all-electric powered football stadium. The new 16,000 capacity stadium will create a larger and permanent home for Oxford United, and will be the most sustainable mid-sized sports venue in the UK. Teams from multi-disciplinary built environment consultancy Ridge and Partners worked alongside AFL Architects (Lead Architects), Mott Macdonald (Engineering Services) and Fabrik (Landscape Design) to develop the scheme. Ridge provided expertise across several aspects of the approved plans including site selection and planning, the sustainability strategy, and modelling and developing the transport strategy. Ridge also provided project management, design, environmental assessment and BREEAM consultancy services.   The team’s vision for sustainability ensured it was at the heart of the design strategy from the outset. As the first all-electric stadium in the UK, it will operate entirely on renewable energy, integrating 3,500 sq m of roof-mounted photovoltaic panels to help reduce the impact on the national grid during matchdays. An air-source heat pump and energy efficient building fabric will remove the need for carbon-based fuels and provide an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions per year compared with gas boilers. The stadium will be located on a five-hectare (12 acre) site at the Triangle, 6km north of Oxford, and near to Oxford Parkway railway station and Kidlington Roundabout. The location of the approved scheme was chosen as the only viable site following Ridge’s consideration of more than 60 sites close to Oxford City Centre, prioritising sustainability, community needs and absence of flood risk or heritage constraints. With Oxford Parkway rail station and Park & Ride right by the new stadium, 90% of journeys to and from the ground have potential to be via sustainable transport. The project will create a new pedestrian and cycle link to nearby communities and public transport, enhanced rail and bus connections, and integration with Park and Ride services via dedicated fan shuttles. Nearly 450 cycle spaces will be provided on site. The football club is also exploring incentives to promote public and active transport. Ridge undertook extensive transport modelling, planning and consultation, using the North Oxford VISSIM model to assess the impact of development generated by the new stadium, scenario modelling for match-day traffic management, and detailed research of other stadia. A stadium for the club and the community The wider mixed-use development includes sustainable transport links, hospitality and events spaces, a new public plaza and wellness gardens, and local health services. It will create new spaces for Oxfordshire to host international events, activate the stadium and surrounds on non-match days, and unlock upwards of £130 million of investment into Cherwell. The new stadium will increase Oxford United’s stadium capacity by 3,500, and ensure that the club is financially sustainable, has a permanent home, and is no longer reliant on short-term leases, in turn improving its ability to deliver lasting impacts for the community. The stadium will feature purpose-built spaces for the club charity Oxford United in the Community, to expand their outreach programme and continue to deliver high-impact education, health and inclusion initiatives. The wider masterplan for the area also includes a 1,000-person events space – Oxfordshire’s largest purpose-built venue of this kind – as well as a 180-bed hotel, a restaurant, a health and wellbeing centre and a community plaza and gardens. This will boost the club’s vitality and secure its long-term commercial success, while also providing amenities to support community activities. New facilities at the conference centre will be flexible, with potential for discounted rates for local community groups.  In granting its planning approval, Cherwell District Council noted the scheme’s significant public benefits, contribution to the community and sustainable commercial model. Jonathon Clarke, Development Director at Oxford United, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have secured this crucial step to safeguard the Club for generations to come. The Committee supported the recommendation of the Planning Officer and has approved our stadium plans. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Ridge and Partners who has been fundamental in reaching this milestone. Their dedication and expertise have truly made the difference in securing the future of Oxford United.” Giles Brockbank, Planning Partner at Ridge, said: “This is a momentous occasion for Oxford United, and for Ridge and our dedicated team who have been instrumental in helping the club get to this point. This project is more than a stadium – it is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure the future of Oxford’s only professional club, and deliver lasting social benefits for Oxford’s communities at the same time. Everyone who has been involved in translating this vision into a reality should be very proud. Our attention to detail, hard work and team ethic has helped bring Oxford United’s vision to fruition and we look forward to continuing to work with the club to implement the plans and deliver the transport strategy.” Sustainability by design Ridge worked on the Oxford United stadium plans alongside AFL Architects, Mott Macdonald and Fabrik. Mott MacDonald’s engineering team helped translate the sustainable vision into design, while its specialists in fire, acoustics, crowd modelling, catering and security will help to ensure fans have a safe and enjoyable stadium experience.  The project is the latest in Ridge’s sports and stadia portfolio, including work on Stoke City FC Training Ground, Birmingham City FC training ground, Forest Green Rovers’ new stadium, Warwickshire County Cricket Club, the masterplan for Twickenham Stadium, and works to the roof of Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium. The new Oxford United stadium will lead to a 20% net gain in local biodiversity, and drainage and landscaping systems are designed to enhance rather than disrupt the site’s ecology and natural environment. It will provide new tree planting, green roofs, beehives, ponds, rain gardens, and wildflower meadows on site. The design and materials of the roof and stadium itself further add to sustainability. AFL Architects’ design – of a bowl that has a steeper rake than normal and a diagonally sloping roofline due to a deliberate choice to concentrate hospitality and hotel

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Better Green Living secures landmark canalside project at CO-OP Live Manchester

Better Green Living secures landmark canalside project at CO-OP Live Manchester

Sustainable refurbishment specialist, Better Green Living, has been appointed to design the new canalside development at the UK’s largest live indoor arena, Co-op Live in Manchester. The 2,000 sq ft multi-functional hospitality space will enhance the visitor experience, creating a vibrant social hub for concertgoers, event attendees, and the community. This major contract win marks a pivotal moment in Better Green Living’s expansion within the commercial sector. The company is leading all aspects of project management, contractor coordination, and on-site execution to ensure a smooth and efficient build. Its expertise in commercial and student accommodation retrofitting has established it as a trusted name for sustainable, design-led construction in high-footfall environments. The development is designed to accommodate up to 500 guests and will feature a bar, café, dedicated seating areas, a merchandise store, kitchens and innovative beer walls to streamline service. Breaking from traditional construction methods, the canalside development is a 100% new build using repurposed shipping containers, reflecting Better Green Living’s commitment to sustainability. Every material is carefully sourced for recyclability and environmental provenance, ensuring the structure can be repurposed at the end of its minimum 10-year operational lifespan. The modular, container-based structure provides flexibility in design, creating a dynamic and visually striking hospitality hub. The project will mimic the aesthetic of Co-op Live, featuring a mesh-clad façade and multi-level arrangement, blending seamlessly with the arena’s industrial-chic architecture. Designed as a pre- and post-show destination, as well as a year-round community hub, the development will offer an engaging mix of entertainment, hospitality and retail – ensuring visitors enjoy a world-class experience outside the main arena. Edward Parsons, Co- Founder and Managing Director at Better Green Living, said: “Our ethos focuses on creating innovative spaces that prioritise sustainability without compromising on experience. Designing a venue for Co-op Live is an exciting opportunity to showcase how environmentally conscious construction can go hand-in-hand with exceptional design. As the commercial sector embraces more sustainable ways to build, this project proves that creative solutions can successfully balance function, aesthetics and sustainability while shaping the future of temporary venue spaces.” Better Green Living, part of Better Green Group, is a specialist refurbishment company dedicated to sustainable retrofitting and commercial fit-outs. Known for delivering high-profile refurbishment projects for King’s College London, the company continues to strengthen its reputation as a leader in environmentally conscious construction. To find out more, visit: www.better-greenliving.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Wingstop Spreads Its Wings with Fifth Leeds Opening

Wingstop Spreads Its Wings with Fifth Leeds Opening

Wingstop has unveiled its fifth Leeds restaurant, opening at The Springs retail and leisure destination. The 3,014 sq ft venue offers the brand’s full menu of wings, tenders, burgers, and sides, alongside a range of drinks. The new branch joins Wingstop’s growing Leeds portfolio, which already includes locations at Cardigan Fields Leisure Park, White Rose Shopping Centre, Boar Lane, and dedicated kitchen delivery sites. This latest opening forms part of Wingstop’s ambitious UK expansion plan, with 20 additional locations scheduled to launch in 2025. Chris Sherriff, CEO at Wingstop UK, said the brand’s ongoing growth in Leeds reflects exceptional demand from customers. “We’ve seen phenomenal demand for Wingstop UK in Leeds, which is why we’re thrilled to be opening our fifth site in the city. Expanding into such a vibrant destination for food and drink, like The Springs, is a natural next step and cements our status as the number one flavour destination in Leeds. We’re grateful for the continued love and support from our local community, as we bring our menu to an even broader audience.” The Springs, already home to a range of well-known dining and retail brands, has welcomed the addition as a boost to its offering. Gemma Chidgey, estates manager at The Springs, commented: “We are thrilled to be welcoming Wingstop to the scheme this week and very proud to be the latest opening in Leeds. The new restaurant will add to our already strong line-up of food and drink brands at The Springs, and we know it will prove popular with our customers and occupiers alike.” With its bold flavours, casual dining atmosphere, and ever-expanding footprint, Wingstop continues to strengthen its presence across the UK, with Leeds proving to be one of its most enthusiastic markets. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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XtraFit Brings 37,000 sq ft Fitness Destination to Manchester Arndale

XtraFit Brings 37,000 sq ft Fitness Destination to Manchester Arndale

Manchester city centre’s fitness scene is set for a major boost as gym operator XtraFit prepares to open a 37,000 sq ft facility at Manchester Arndale. The brand has agreed a 20-year lease for a prominent Market Street unit, offering an extensive range of training options and wellness services. Members will have access to activities such as Hyrox training, run clubs, and group fitness classes, as well as a full suite of gym equipment. The new location will also feature massage and tanning services, enhancing the overall customer experience. Already established in Liverpool and Dudley, XtraFit’s arrival will further strengthen Manchester Arndale’s leisure line-up, joining existing attractions such as King Pins and Urban Playground. Scott Linard, portfolio director for M&G Real Estate, said: “A strong leisure mix has become the backbone of successful retail destinations, so we are delighted to introduce XF Gym to Manchester Arndale. With a bustling city centre population, XF Gym is perfectly placed to meet Mancunian fitness needs. “The continued evolution of Manchester Arndale has made it one of the North West’s most visited destinations, thanks to our best-in-class retail, food and beverage, and leisure offering. This consistent footfall makes us the first choice for brands looking to establish themselves in Manchester.” Metis Real Estate and Time Retail Partners continue to act as the retained letting agents for Manchester Arndale. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Chopstix Brings Fast-Fresh Flavour to Huddersfield

Huddersfield has welcomed its first Chopstix restaurant as the popular Asian quick-service brand continues its rapid UK expansion. Opening this month on King Street, the new outlet is part of Chopstix’s strategy to grow in high-footfall areas, including busy high streets and major transport hubs. The Huddersfield launch follows several recent openings across the country, including Brighton, Leeds and Wolverhampton. Sam Elia, co-founder and director at Chopstix, said: “We’re excited to be opening in Huddersfield and bringing our unique brand proposition to another great UK high street. This year we’ve seen strong momentum across the business, which is a testament to the strength of the Chopstix brand and our focus on quality, speed and customer experience.” The company’s growth has accelerated following investment from quick-service restaurant group QSRP earlier in 2024. With new locations continuing to open at pace, Chopstix is aiming to become the largest Asian quick-service restaurant brand in Europe. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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Firethorn breaks ground at Sackville Place development

Firethorn breaks ground at Sackville Place development

Real estate investor, developer and asset manager, Firethorn, has broken ground at its Sackville Place development in central Dublin, with Stewart Construction appointed to deliver the 138 bedroom site.  Located off O’Connell Street in the heart of the Irish capital, the high-density hotel marks Stewart Construction’s first contract from Firethorn.  With a high-quality specification, designed to enhance the city’s provision of affordable accommodation, Sackville Place is Firethorn’s first tourism asset, and its first development outside of the UK. The seven-storey site will feature a mix of double, triple and quadruple bunk dormitory rooms, alongside private double rooms. Modern communal social spaces across the ground floor and basement will be open to the public as well as guests, including a bar, café and lounge.   Paul Martin, Director and Head of Development at Firethorn, said:   “Breaking ground at Sackville Place is a significant milestone for Firethorn, marking the first asset of this kind within our Living portfolio, and our debut development outside of the UK. This project represents our ambition, as we continue to acquire and develop high-quality sites in prime locations for investment.  “As the latest addition to Dublin’s thriving hospitality landscape, Sackville Place will offer guests modern and affordable amenities, while contributing to the local neighbourhood with vibrant facilities for the public to enjoy. Stewart Construction has a proven track record in delivering best-in-class hospitality assets on time and in budget, and with work now underway, we look forward to working together to bring Sackville Place to swift completion.”  Paul Stewart, Managing Director, Stewart Construction said:  “Stewart Construction is delighted to be entrusted with the delivery of Sackville Place for Firethorn. A market-leading developer in UK real estate, Sackville Place represents Firethorn’s first acquisition outside of the UK and we would like to take this opportunity to welcome them to Ireland.  “Our mission is to work with clients who are like minded and we look forward to collaborating with Firethorn on this development. Our team is amongst the best at what we do; by understanding the needs of the hospitality sector, we can ensure quality, value and cost certainty.”  Firethorn acquired Sackville Place in partnership with real estate investment managers, SW3 Capital, who will retain operational management of the site upon completion through its new operating business, “The Gofer”.  Tom O’Mahony, Director and Co Founder of SW3 Capital said:  “This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We’re thrilled to move into the next phase as we prepare to open and operate under our hospitality brand, The Gofer. Our goal is to redefine the guest experience in Dublin by combining exceptional facilities at Sackville Place with authentic, locally-rooted experiences. We’re excited to offer guests a true taste of Dublin – vibrant, welcoming, and unforgettable”.   Sackville Place is the latest addition to Firethorn’s growing Living portfolio, which includes purpose-built student accommodation sites in London and Edinburgh, the boutique hotel Malmaison York, and the office-to-residential conversion of One Bessborough Gardens in central London.  Practical completion is due in March 2027.   For more information, visit www.firethorntrust.com.   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

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