London’s Trocadero project has suffered another delay, with suggestions the operator lined up to run the 490-bedroom hotel being developed on site has raised objections over the design.
Accor is set to operate the Trocadero hotel under its budget Ibis brand, but industry rumours suggest the French hotel giant is considering withdrawing from the project due to a design issue and a lack of funds from property owner Golfrate.
Michael Hughes, director at Golfrate, denied Accor was pulling out but admitted there had been a “window issue”, which had prompted another redesign.
He said: “We have planning permission for the Trocadero and Accor are still our preferred backer, but there is an issue with the amount of windows, so we’re currently tweaking around with the details of the design to get it as viable as it can possibly be.”
Hughes said he hoped to have the new hotel design plans approved by September.
Accor declined to comment.
Trocadero owner Golfrate is developing the hotel in the heart of London’s West End as part of ambitious plans to redevelop the landmark leisure site ahead of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
In 2007 Westminster City councillors refused planning permission for the hotel after concerns about its bulk and height.
One councillor was quoted describing a proposed glass facade lit by different coloured lights as “hideous”.
Trocadero owners bow to council pressure to change hotel design >>
£145m Trocadero redevelopment plans submitted to council >>
Accor to open London hotel in Trocadero Centre >>
By Gemma Sharkey
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