Developers have hailed the start of work on a new hotel in the Scottish capital.
The news comes after a Scottish family-owned construction firm was appointed as the principal contractor on the project.
Developer S Harrison said that "construction work has started on an impressive new 157-bedroom hotel in the Haymarket area of Edinburgh".
The development will see a 1970s office building, which is currently known as Osborne House, transformed into a new hotel, with a residentsâ bar, restaurant and lounge area on the ground floor and an outdoor seating terrace.
Following part demolition of the existing building, two new accommodation wings will be built to the rear, together with a new storey above the existing building.
Late last year, S Harrison announced a deal with European hotel group Meininger Hotels to operate the hotel, which is set to open in spring 2026. Meininger Hotels, a key player in the hybrid hotel market, operates 36 hotels across 26 European cities. Each hotel "features its own unique design, offering flexible and affordable modern accommodation".
S Harrison acquired Osborne House in 2018 and worked with Edinburgh-based architect, Comprehensive Design Architects on the transformational plans, incorporating impressive green credentials including the retention of the majority of the existing building structure.
The building is located just west of Edinburgh city centre, a few minutesâ walk from Haymarket railway station and tram stop and easy walking distance from Princess Street. S Harrison will hold the completed investment, further strengthening the companyâs property portfolio.
Andrew Wharton, of S Harrison, said: "Appointing Ogilvie Construction to deliver another landmark project in Edinburgh and seeing work start is obviously a key milestone for this development and follows several years of diligent work to secure both planning permission and the right occupier for the scheme. Weâre now looking forward to seeing our plans progress on site over the coming months.â
Grier Edmead, operations director at Ogilvie Construction, said: "We are proud to be working with S Harrison on this project which has energy-efficiency and strong sustainability credentials at the heart of its design. Our team brings unrivalled specialist knowledge of the hotel and leisure sector, and we look forward to successfully delivering a first-class destination in the city, making both S Harrisonâs and Meininger Hotelsâ vision for this building a reality."
Popeyes reveals Glasgow Sauchiehall Street opening date
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The US fried chicken chain that caused 18-hour queues when it first launched in Scotland has announced the opening date for its new Glasgow restaurant.
Popeyes has said the doors will open at its Sauchiehall Street restaurant on Friday, July 5. Tom Crowley, chief executive at Popeyes UK, told The Herald: "In just 30 months, our remarkable Popeyes UK team have already opened 49 top-tier restaurants and we're now looking forward to celebrating the big â50â with our Glasgow Sauchiehall Street opening.
Small family-run caravan park wins title of 'Best Caravan Park'
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A small family-run caravan park on the outskirts of Edinburgh has won the title of âBest Caravan Parkâ in Scotland at the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2024.Â
Despite facing strong competition, Linwater Caravan Park surpassed top-ranking caravan parks throughout Scotland to acquire first place. It was recognised for its excellent customer service, commitment to maintaining immaculate grounds, and continuous improvement and investment in on-site facilities.
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