McAleer & Rushe has gained consent to replace Leicester Square’s Swiss Centre with a hotel and leisure complex.
A meeting of Westminster councillors last night gave the Northern Irish developer permission to demolish the 1960s landmark building subject to certain minor provisions.
The group, which is a development partner to Jury’s Doyle Hotels, plans to build a 100,000 sq ft 230-bed four star hotel, with 16,000 sq ft of retail and 10 penthouse apartments.
Plans also include a restaurant and casino in the 40,000 sq ft basement,
The consent hinges on agreement on the casino operator, and a reduction of the entertainment floor space with exploration of further use for the available space recommended.
The 112,000 sq ft building was bought by McAleer & Rushe from British Land for £47m in 2004.
CB Richard Ellis is agent for the retail and leisure space; JLL is hotel agent
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References: EGi News 04/08/06
