MIPIM | Hilton commits to £135m Wigan Galleries
The hotel giant has signed a franchise agreement that will see its name emblazoned on the 144-bedroom building planned as part of phase one of the regeneration project.
Wigan Council and Cityheart – the developer behind the £135m redevelopment of the former Galleries Shopping Centre – announced the franchise agreement at MIPIM just days after appointing Galliford Try as the main contractor for the first phase.
“The introduction of a high-quality hotel for Wigan centre is a key part of the agreed masterplan and will be critical to the rejuvenation of the town by increasing and raising the standard of accommodation available, “ said Warren Taylor, chief operating officer at Cityheart.
“Hilton is one of the world’s most recognised hotel brands. Within its portfolio, Hampton by Hilton is a strong and well-respected brand and we are incredibly pleased to have secured it for Wigan as we look to create a vibrant and enticing town centre offering for visitors and local people alike.”
The six-storey Hampton by Hilton will be managed and operated by Leaf Hospitality.
Designed by JM Architects, the Hampton by Hilton hotel will be located off Market Street in Wigan’s town centre.
As well as bedrooms, the hotel will feature a gym on level one overlooking the new square with the main reception area and dining space on the ground floor.
The delivery of a hotel as part of the Galleries masterplan is aimed at boosting the evening economy and bringing visitors to Wigan.
Cllr David Molyneux, Leader of Wigan Council, said the Hilton deal indicates strong investor sentiment.
“It demonstrates the confidence that investors, businesses and partners have with a new market hall, cinema, bowling alley, bars and restaurants, alongside the Hampton by Hilton, coming to our town centre.”
Graham Dodd, managing director of development for Hilton in the UK and Ireland, added: “Our partnership with Wigan Council marks an exciting new chapter, as part of Hilton’s growing presence in the North West.
“We were impressed by the council and Cityheart’s vision to provide a thriving new retail, leisure, commercial and residential destination and are excited to be part of Wigan’s transformation.”
P.P.O’Connor is currently on site preparing for delivery of phase one, which includes the Hampton by Hilton hotel, a market hall, and food court.
This initial phase will be followed by the construction of the Pavilion building and the multimedia centre, as well as 464 homes across seven residential buildings and a retirement living complex.
Stay up to date on MIPIM news. Visit Place North West‘s MIPIM Hub
