Green light for hotel after failed George Best project

Belfast City Council has recently approved plans for a new luxury hotel, marking a significant development in the city’s hospitality sector. The planning permission was granted on Tuesday for the redevelopment of the Scottish Mutual Building, a prominent red brick Georgian structure located at the corner of Bedford Street. This building is known for its distinctive architectural features, including several towers and numerous windows, some of which are curved. The exterior of the building is currently adorned with hoardings that celebrate the legacy of the famous footballer George Best. The new hotel, named the Bedford Hotel, is being developed by the Londonderry-based Martin Property Group. Construction is already underway, and the hotel is expected to open its doors before the end of this year. Initially, there were plans to transform the Scottish Mutual Building into a George Best-themed hotel. However, the project faced challenges when the company responsible for it went into administration in 2020, halting progress. A legal issue also prevented the building from being sold until it was resolved in June 2022, paving the way for the current development. Once completed, the Bedford Hotel will feature 102 guest rooms, a restaurant, and a cafe bar. The planning committee was informed that the hotel’s development partner, Focus Hotels, aims to have the hotel operational by October. This project is expected to inject approximately £21 million into the local economy and create around 125 new jobs in the hospitality sector. Paul Martin, the managing director of Martin Property Group, expressed his delight at receiving planning permission, describing it as a major milestone in their vision for the building. He emphasized that this project not only preserves an important part of Belfast’s architectural heritage but also contributes to the ongoing revitalization of the city’s tourism and hospitality industry. Councillor Arder Carson, chair of the council’s planning committee, welcomed the conversion and restoration of the Grade B1 listed building. He noted that the new hotel will enhance the character and appearance of the Linen Quarter conservation area, making it a valuable addition to the neighborhood.