Stephen to take on the Grand Central

Stephen Meldrum has been appointed general manager of Hastings new Grand Central Hotel in Belfast.

Formerly GM at the group’s luxury Slieve Donard Resort & Spa in Newcastle, Stephen began his career with Hastings as a restaurant manager at Ballygally Castle in 2002 before climbing the ranks.

Speaking following the announcement recently, Stephen – who is also the incoming president of the NI Hotels Federation – said that he was “honoured”:

“The building programme is on schedule and I am looking forward to the challenge of working towards the opening in June of what will be Northern Ireland’s biggest hotel,” he added. “At 23-storeys high, the views alone will be unbeatable, and I will bring my 20 years of experience to ensure the hotel leads the way and that guests will enjoy a memorable stay every time.”

The Grand Central Hotel at Bedford Street in Belfast will offer 300 bedrooms, three restaurants and bars and the Panorama reception lounge for up to 100 people. It is due to open in June.

Howard Hastings, managing director of Hastings Hotels said that he was delighted to appoint Stephen to the new role at the Grand Central:

“Stephen is without doubt the right person to take on one of the top hotel jobs in Ireland and we wish him the very best in his new role,” he added