Go- ahead for new hotel next to SoL
A HILTON hotel will be built next to the home of Sunderland AFC after planning approval was sealed.
The Echo revealed earlier this year that the world- famous chain hoped to build a hotel yards from the Stadium of Light.
Sunderland City Council acquired the land – between Sunderland Aquatic Centre and SAFC’s Black Cat House – from the Homes and Communities Agency, and the project will be handled by new firm Sunderland FC Developments, which is affiliated to the club but a separate venture.
Construction of the four- storey 161- bedroom hotel is expected to create up to 150 jobs, with the hotel to generate 100 posts.
Work could start next year, with an opening date anticipated for summer 2015.
Council cabinet secretary Mel Speding said: “The Stadium of Light area has long been recog- nised as an area for further development.
“This development, as the committee heard, meets a proven need, being so close to the football club, plus events at the Sunderland Aquatic Centre.” Coun Speding added that the area has excellent transport links and he believes the hotel could be a catalyst for more investment.
City leaders have identified a need to offer a wider range of places to stay to help capitalise on events.
Meanwhile, work will start on a £ 6million Premier Inn in St Michael’s Way next month.