The City Hotel in Derry will undergo a multi-million pound facelift after new franchise deal signed with Hilton.
The hotel, situated at Queen’s Quay, will be rebranded as DoubleTree by Hilton Derry.
English operator Focus Hotel has been appointed to manage the site.
Up to £7 million will be invested in a regeneration programme with work due to start this November after the Halloween celebrations in the city.
A consortium of Derry-based investors, which owns the hotel, will remain in place. They include Larry Duddy, Gay Durkan, Patrick Durkan and Eleanor McCartney-Logue.
Solicitor Greg McCartney, chair of the hotel’s board of directors, said: “We are delighted to welcome the global Hilton brand to the city.
“The new hotel marks an important milestone in the city’s evolution, enhancing its reputation as a key destination for tourism and business.”
Graham Dodd, managing director of development within the Hilton’s UK and Irish operation, said: “Our debut in the city marks a significant step in Hilton’s further expansion across Northern Ireland.
“With rising tourism demand in the region, we’re excited to be working closely with Focus Hotels to introduce the warm hospitality that DoubleTree by Hilton is known for globally, enhancing the city’s appeal as a must-visit destination for domestic and international travellers alike.”
Focus Hotels recently signed up to run the Holiday Inn Express on Derry’s Strand Road.
The 158-room DoubleTree by Hilton Derry is set to open in the summer of 2025.
It will have a revamped bar and restaurant, along with its ballroom, seven meeting rooms and swimming pool.
In July, Da Vinci’s Hotel on Culmore Road in the city was taken over by Co Donegal brothers Patrick and Edmund Simpson.
The hotel had been part of the Garvan O’Doherty (GOD) Group since its opening more than 20 years ago.
The venue has 64 hotel bedrooms and a number of self-contained apartments.
Tags: