Work is currently underway to turn an Edwardian building in Great Scotland Yard - formerly part of the Metropolitan Police force's headquarters - into a 92,000 sq ft 5-star hotel.
The seven-storey hotel, whose lease was secured in 2013 by Galliard Homes, is expected to open in the first quarter of 2017 following a £50m refurbishment.
Galliard Homes, which made an £110m agreement with the Abu Dhabi based Lulu Group International, plans to provide a mix of luxury bedrooms, two bars, restaurants, meeting areas and private entertaining and dining areas with interior work set to start early next year.
Steigenberger Hotel Group, which owns 18 hotels and operates 92 in 11 countries will operate the hotel under its Signature brand.
Chief executive Puneet Chhatwal said: "This iconic 5-star hotel will mark the entry of the Steigenberger brand into the vibrant and world-renowned London hotel market. Our vision is to create an outstanding 5-star hotel drawing on our reputation for quality and service combined with the outstanding central location, grand architecture and fascinating history of Great Scotland Yard.”
Luxury and quality
Don O' Sullivan, managing director of Galliard Homes said the company planned to create one of London’s 'most luxurious and opulent 5-star hotels'. When it opens in 2017 its most expensive suite will cost £10,000 per night and it will employ 250 people.
"Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts were chosen as the operator because of their reputation for perfect hospitality, quality and outstanding customer service. The Great Scotland Yard Hotel will be a brand synonymous with exceptional service and refined luxury and quality," he said.
The hotel site has a fascinating history, forming the part of the headquarters of the Metropolitan Police Force between 1829 and 1890 during which time crimes such as The Plaistow Marshes and Jack the Ripper were investigated.
In 1910 the building served as the British Army Recruitment Office and Royal Military Police headquarters where Lord Kitchener famously told WWI recruits "Your Country Needs You”.