Dublin-based Press Up Group is behind the bid to develop the property next to the Ulster Hall in Belfast.
Press Up is headed by Paddy McKillen Jnr, the son of one of west Belfast’s most successful businessmen, Paddy McKillen Snr, who previously owned Claridge’s hotel in London.
The business hopes to turn 34-44 Bedford Street into a 91-bedroom hotel, under ‘The Dean’ brand, potentially creating up to 170 jobs.
The group already operates three hotels under the brand in Dublin, Cork and Galway, with another planned in Birmingham.
The 19th century Belfast building is currently home to the popular Harlem café and a retail premises. Two other street level units are empty.
The three-storey building has been home to many notable businesses over the years including Larry’s Piano Bar and Deanes Deli.
The new hotel would comprise of 91 bedrooms, Sophie’s Rooftop Restaurant and Terrace and a 3 x 13m rooftop pool – a first for the Group’s portfolio of urban hotels.
The applicant is named as Bedford Way Limited and is controlled by Oakmount, sister company to Press Up Group with the development expected to create 170 full-time jobs.
Jessica Carlyle-Clarke, Head of Business Development & New Opportunities UK, said: “We are delighted to move forward with plans to bring The Dean to Belfast – a capital city that is as vibrant and fresh as the brand itself.
“We are all about celebrating iconic cities, creating beautiful spaces within them that complement old and new.
“This site is one of cultural significance, right next to the Ulster Hall, a venue that speaks to Belfast’s built heritage. This is an exciting time for the Group as it looks to develop its footprint across the UK and Ireland.”
Neil McShane, of property consultants INPRIO, represents the current owners and commented on the proposals: “The owners have been custodians of this family jewel for many years but recognise that they need to pass the baton to a developer in order to preserve the building and realise its full potential.
“The future of this unique building is extremely important to them and whilst there have been numerous approaches over the years, for various uses, they believe the plans for a boutique hotel is the best way to fulfil their determination to rejuvenate the existing building.”
