Travelodge has announced the acquisition of 11 hotels across the UK, marking a major step forward in its ambitious growth plans. The move expands the brand’s UK portfolio to nearly 600 hotels, with the company aiming to open a further 300 nationwide. Nine of the newly acquired sites are former Hotel Campanile properties, comprising a total of 951 rooms. Of these, five are freehold acquisitions, while four are being secured on long leaseholds. The hotels are located in key cities including Birmingham, Bradford, Dartford, Leicester, Liverpool, Manchester, Northampton, Milton Keynes and Swindon. In addition, Travelodge has recently exchanged contracts on two more hotels: a former Ibis in Bromsgrove and the independent CitiLodge in Wakefield. The Bromsgrove site, which features 43 rooms, has been taken on a new 25-year lease and is currently undergoing a full refurbishment to align with Travelodge’s brand standards. It is expected to open in May. Meanwhile, the Wakefield hotel – offering 74 rooms – is being converted to the Travelodge brand by the current owner. Once the refurbishment is complete in August, Travelodge will take on a new 25-year lease at the property. The company has also just opened a fully refitted hotel in Bromley town centre, also formerly an Ibis, following an exchange of contracts in January. Steve Bennett, Chief Property and Development Officer at Travelodge, commented:“The acquisition of these hotels marks another positive step in our UK development strategy, as we seek to grow and optimise our estate while enhancing value through a balanced mix of freehold and leasehold properties. There are still many towns and cities across the UK and Spain where we can open a new Travelodge to provide high-quality, great-value accommodation.” He added:“Rebranding and refitting properties is a key element of our growth plan. With over 300 more hotels on our UK target list, we remain actively on the lookout for the right opportunities.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Hollywood Bowl has commenced fit-out works for its latest venue at Hammerson’s The Oracle in Reading, with an official opening slated for this summer. The £4.5 million investment will deliver a state-of-the-art entertainment hub featuring 24 bowling lanes, an extensive amusement arcade, and a vibrant themed bar and diner. The new Hollywood Bowl will complement the existing leisure and food & beverage offering at The Oracle, joining a dynamic mix of restaurants, bars, cafés, and a cinema. This opening forms part of Hammerson’s broader strategy to reposition The Oracle, which includes transforming a former department store into modern, mixed-use space. In total, approximately 40% of the centre—around 320,000 square feet—is undergoing redevelopment, marking it as Hammerson’s most ambitious transformation project to date. Rita-Rose Gagné, CEO of Hammerson, commented:“We are proud to be partnering with Hollywood Bowl and are thrilled by their commitment and scale of investment. It’s a significant endorsement of The Oracle’s strength, its catchment, and the demand we’ve cultivated over the years. The venue will further establish The Oracle as a vibrant, all-day destination.” Stephen Burns, CEO of Hollywood Bowl Group, added:“We’re excited to announce the opening of our newest centre at The Oracle in Reading—a significant milestone in our strategic UK expansion. This venue underlines our commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment experiences, catering to families, friends, and corporate groups alike in the heart of Reading.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Whitbread PLC, the owner of the Premier Inn hotel chain, has revealed the location for its newest Dublin hotel, with plans submitted to redevelop a site at Parkgate Street, Dublin 8, into a new 155-bedroom Premier Inn. Development partners Greenleaf Group and Warren Private have submitted a planning application to demolish the vacant Westbrook Motors building and build a new latest format Premier Inn hotel.  The site is situated in a prime location near Heuston Station, on the River Liffey and by famous Dublin 8 pub Ryan’s of Parkgate Street. Whitbread previously partnered with Greenleaf Group and Warren Private on its first Premier Inn hotel in Ireland – at Lower Stephen’s Street, Dublin 2 – and its Cork hotel which opened its doors in 2024. Furthermore, Warren Private and Greenleaf Group sold the site at 29-30 Ushers Quay, Dublin 8 where Whitbread shortly intends to commence construction on a new 100-bedroom hotel. Parkgate Street is the latest commitment by Whitbread in Ireland as it targets a network of 5,000 Premier Inn rooms across the country.  The company currently offers a choice of six hotels across Dublin and Cork and has more than +1,000 new hotel rooms in its secure development pipeline across both cities. Matt Gent, Development Manager for Whitbread in Ireland, said: “Premier Inn is growing from strength to strength in Ireland.  Submitting a planning application for what will become our third Premier Inn hotel in Dublin 8 is a huge achievement for the business and will deliver another excellent location for our customers as we aim to become the number one budget hotel chain in Ireland.  “Parkgate Street site is in an exciting and vibrant area of the city, and we are confident a Premier Inn hotel will trade strongly there given the proximity to Heuston Station and the many leisure attractions and leisure businesses nearby.  “With significant additional bedroom requirements yet to fulfil in Dublin and elsewhere, we’re actively seeking additional freehold and leasehold opportunities for Premier Inn across Ireland as we work to establish a national network of budget hotels for our domestic and international customers”. Mark Elliott, Director of Dublin-based Greenleaf Group said:  “We are very pleased to once again be partnering with Warren Private and Whitbread to regenerate this high-profile Dublin 8 site and deliver a high-quality new 155-bedroom Premier Inn hotel.  “This is a continuation of our tried and tested partnership with Warren Private and Whitbread.  Our completed Premier Inn hotels are now open and trading well in Dublin and Cork, and we’re certain this strategically important location will be a success. “We very much hope that the proposal will be favourably considered by Dublin City Council, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders during the planning and development of the site.” Premier Inn has a target list of 14 locations for Premier Inn in Ireland including Dublin, Galway, Killarney, Limerick and Waterford.  The business is seeking sites as freeholds, leaseholds, conversions as well as going concern asset purchases.  The full list of target locations for Premier Inn in Ireland is available here. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

A spectacular new chapter in UK tourism is about to begin, as Universal announces plans to build its first European theme park and resort – right in the heart of Bedfordshire. In a landmark deal between Universal Destinations & Experiences, the UK government, and Bedford Borough Council, a multi-billion-pound investment will bring a world-class entertainment resort to a 476-acre site in Bedford, with construction expected to begin in 2026 and doors opening in 2031. Set to become the largest visitor attraction in the UK, the resort is forecast to welcome 8.5 million guests in its first year alone and deliver a staggering £50 billion boost to the economy by 2055. The project is also expected to generate around 28,000 new jobs – with nearly 20,000 created during construction and a further 8,000 in hospitality, creative industries, tourism and tech, including AI. The theme park will feature several immersive, Universal-themed lands inspired by the studio’s blockbuster films, including the likes of Minions, Jurassic Park, and Jaws. In addition to thrilling rides and cutting-edge attractions, the site will include a 500-room hotel, a bustling retail and dining complex, and new entertainment venues. Universal is also working with local colleges and universities to ensure training and job opportunities for residents, further strengthening ties with the community. Prime Minister Keir Starmer hailed the project as a “game-changer” for the region and the country: “Today we closed the deal on a multi-billion-pound investment that will see Bedford become home to one of the biggest entertainment parks in Europe.This is our Plan for Change in action – delivering growth, thousands of jobs, and real opportunities for people. Together, we are building a brighter future for the UK.” Chancellor Rachel Reeves added: “This investment is a vote of confidence in Britain’s future. Universal’s commitment will bring billions into the economy and transform lives through job creation and economic growth.” Mark Woodbury, Chairman and CEO of Universal Destinations & Experiences, said: “Bringing a world-class theme park and resort to the United Kingdom is a tremendous opportunity and part of our vision to bring Universal experiences to new audiences around the globe. We’re excited about what lies ahead.” The government has pledged major investment in transport and infrastructure to ensure the resort is accessible and seamlessly connected to surrounding areas. The development is still subject to planning approvals, with proposals due to be submitted soon. With a bold vision, global backing, and the promise of economic transformation, Universal’s arrival in Bedford is set to make history – turning the county into a leading global destination for family entertainment. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Kirklees Council is set to complete its ambitious redevelopment of New Street by unveiling a special literary tribute to the town. The final touch to the major improvement project will be a poem by National Poet Laureate Simon Armitage, a Marsden native, celebrating Huddersfield, its people, and its traditions. The poem, written specifically for the New Street regeneration, has been part of the vision from the outset, and its installation marks the poetic conclusion of the street’s transformation. While the full text remains under wraps for now, the council has confirmed it will be revealed once it takes its place on New Street, allowing residents, businesses, and visitors the first opportunity to experience it in its intended setting. This artistic addition is one of many initiatives reflecting Huddersfield’s growing cultural landscape. The town is on the brink of a major regeneration through the ‘Our Cultural Heart’ project, one of the largest town centre redevelopments in northern England. Located just around the corner from New Street, the project will bring new opportunities in art, music, history, and culture while boosting footfall in the town centre. The first phase of this landmark transformation, which includes a new library hub, food hall, and public square, is scheduled to open in spring next year. Additionally, planning permission has recently been granted for the second phase, which will see the introduction of a new museum and gallery. Across Huddersfield, these regeneration efforts are placing a strong emphasis on celebrating local creativity and heritage. To minimise disruption to local businesses, the council has ensured that the installation of the poetic paving stones will be carefully managed. The work will begin on 22 April and take place over 16 weeks, with only small sections of the street cordoned off at a time. Business entrances will remain accessible, and the enhancements are expected to be completed in time for the bustling summer months, when many cafés and restaurants extend their seating onto the street. Furthermore, the installation will not compromise accessibility. The poetic paving stones have been designed to integrate seamlessly with the tactile paving introduced in earlier improvements, ensuring that visually impaired individuals can navigate the street safely and comfortably. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Global real estate firm Avison Young UK and JLL have been jointly appointed by Z Hotels, to sell the freehold interest in its Leicester Square property, a market-leading boutique hotel in the heart of London’s West End.  Structured as a sale and leaseback offers are invited at a guide price of £42 million for the freehold interest, with a guaranteed 35-year leaseback to Z Hotels. The hotel has 95 boutique bedrooms across four floors, with a basement restaurant. The proposed hotel lease is structured around a 5 yearly reviewed rent, indexed to CPI and a separate ground floor restaurant lease to Steak & Co.                   Located at Garrick House, 3-5 Charing Cross Road, the site has undergone conversion from an office to reinstate the original use of the building as a hotel. The hotel has been designed to provide maximum energy efficiency and will be fully operational by June 2025. Strategically positioned directly off Leicester Square, the hotel is surrounded by London’s most popular tourist landmarks, nightlife destinations and the West End’s cultural attractions, driving consistently high occupancy levels. The property is highly connected, with TfL and National Rail stations within 5 minutes walking distance and nearby Elizabeth Line routes at Tottenham Court Road opening up Heathrow Airport in under 50 minutes.  The hotel will operate with low environmental impact, with ESG credentials boosted by the installation of low carbon technologies including photovoltaics, heat recovery units and non-refrigerant water-cooled air conditioning. All parties declined to comment. For enquiries, please contact: Pippa Harrison, Principal Head of Hotel Capital Markets, Avison Young UK: Pippa.Harrison@avisonyoung.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

The owner of the popular competitive socialising brand Flight Club is setting its sights on over 45 new venues within the next five years. Red Engine, which also operates the Electric Shuffle concept, has announced plans to open six new Flight Club and two Electric Shuffle venues this year, bringing its total number of sites to 39. By the end of 2030, the group aims to expand its estate to an impressive 84 venues. This ambitious growth strategy comes as Red Engine reports a surge in sales, driven by its expanding global footprint. The company revealed on Tuesday that its revenue for 2024 had climbed to £77.1 million, marking a 15% increase compared to the previous year. Steve Moore, Chief Executive and Co-founder of Red Engine, highlighted the strategic approach behind their expansion: “Growing our footprint is about more than just opening new doors. It’s about carefully choosing locations that align with our brands and the communities they serve. With each new venue, we see our global presence strengthen. “We’re incredibly excited about the journey ahead as we work towards making Flight Club and Electric Shuffle household names worldwide.” Since launching its first venue in Shoreditch in 2015, Red Engine has expanded across the UK to cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Cardiff, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Internationally, the group has established a presence in Dublin, New York, Las Vegas, and Melbourne, with more global locations on the horizon. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Once fully complete The Padel Club TraffordCity will have 11 courts with state-of-the-art sporting infrastructure and a clubhouse and experience curated by wellness designers. The first phase of the much-anticipated biggest Padel tennis facility in the North of England has been completed and will open its doors to padel enthusiasts from Saturday 22nd March. Located in one of the UK’s foremost retail and leisure destinations – TraffordCity Manchester, The Padel Club’s £2.5 million club and facility will be the third venue developed and operated by the business. Trafford Council approved plans last year to transform the vacant brownfield site. Since the approval, The Padel Club has worked in partnership with regeneration specialists and master planners of TraffordCity, Peel Waters, as well as leading wellness design experts Zynk Design to develop the landmark club. The Padel Club TraffordCity is being delivered in two phases. The first phase completes this month and will see the opening of the first Padel arena of the custom designed Padel facility. The first arena comprises of five purpose-built and high spec covered courts plus two outdoor courts; offering year-round playing which isn’t weather dependent. The Phase one opening also includes the opening of the clubhouse which will be the social centre of The Padel Club TraffordCity. Offering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere with a modern aesthetic, the clubhouse will include an onsite eatery and coffee bar serving up The Padel Club’s own special blend of coffee. The clubhouse will also have its own onsite retail store; offering Padel essentials, best in class rackets; performance wear and exclusive merchandise. The Padel Club has several exclusive fashion and lifestyle collaborations lined up which will be announced and launched from TraffordCity site over the next year. Curating a friendly and welcoming social experience that is centred around wellness has been fundamental to the design of The Padel Club TraffordCity. Spectatorship and involvement will be encouraged at this new facility, with bleacher seating installed to maximise the viewer experience and add excitement when tournaments take place. With Phase one now being complete and operational, The Padel Club plans on losing no time to open the full facility. The build programme to complete Phase two will continue whilst the players use the operational sections of the club. Phase two works include the completion of the second Padel arena comprising of the remaining four indoor courts. The works are expected to be finished by summer this year. On its completion it will make the 11-court club the biggest Padel facility in the North. Kris Ball, Founder and CEO of The Padel Club said: “Opening the doors of The Padel Club TraffordCity is a huge milestone for us. There has been so much hard work to get us to this stage and we’d like to thank everyone who’s helped us. The Padel Club TraffordCity is going to be a landmark club for the north and for the sport, the amount of interest and anticipation we’ve received since we first announced the news that we would be building a club here has been remarkable. “We can’t wait to see these courts in action and for players to enjoy this Padel destination that is centred around quality, experience and wellness.” James Whittaker, Managing Director of Peel Waters said: “Our aspiration is for TraffordCity to become the UK’s best retail and leisure destination and offer an activity for everyone. The Padel Club is a great addition to the eclectic mix of leisure offerings we have brought together here. “Padel is one of the fastest growing and most inclusive sports in the UK, and I have witnessed firsthand how fun, accessible and social Padel is. We can’t wait to see the community use this new, high-quality facility and for the club to act as catalyst for the sport encouraging more tournaments and take-up of Padel. “The opening of The Padel Club TraffordCity will bring with it a huge positive impact for the local community including job creation, a further boost to the local economy and improvements to health and wellbeing across different age groups.” Construction is now immediately underway on Phase 2 of The Padel Club TraffordCity, with an expectation to complete all work on site by the beginning of July. The Padel Club TraffordCity will be open from Saturday 22nd March with courts available to book via Playtomic:  The Padel Club TraffordCity | Book your court – Playtomic The Padel Club TraffordCity opening hours: Monday – Friday: 06:30 – 23:00 Saturday and Sunday: 07:00 – 22:00 To find out more about The Padel Club TraffordCity visit: www.thepadelclub.co.uk/traffordcity Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals