Major hotel & leisure projects progress despite sector challenges

The hotel and leisure construction sector is contending with ongoing economic and operational pressures, yet a number of high-profile projects are advancing through the planning system, says Glenigan.

From cultural centres, and regional transport improvements, to destination resort schemes, these developments highlight continued activity in key locations

A standout project is Universal Studios’ fast-tracked bid to develop a major UK theme park and resort at the former Kempston Hardwick brickworks in Bedford (pictured). Submitted under a Special Development Order (Glenigan Project ID: 23398445), the proposal could bring a construction start as early as 2026, creating an estimated 20,000 jobs, with up to 5,000 workers on site at peak.

This five-year programme promises to not only deliver a world-class leisure destination, expected to attract 8.5 million visitors in its inaugural year but also unlock long-awaited regional transport improvements. These include an expanded Wixams railway station (Glenigan Project ID: 20407649), new A421 slip roads, and enhanced road networks, reinforcing the project’s strategic importance.

Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest Football Club has secured planning approval for a £130 million redevelopment of its City Ground stadium and adjacent land in West Bridgford (Glenigan Project ID: 19065197). The scheme includes a new 10,000-seat Peter Taylor Stand, integrated hospitality and conferencing spaces, retail units, and a public plaza. The uplift in projected capital expenditure from £94.4m in 2022 to £130m underscores the club’s long-term investment commitment.

Complementing the stadium upgrade, a 13-storey residential scheme has also received planning consent (Glenigan Project ID: 22300039), further enhancing the area’s mixed-use appeal and contributing to the regeneration of Nottingham’s south bank.

In Scotland, Morrison Construction has been named as the preferred delivery partner for a £19 million Mountain Bike Innovation Centre in Innerleithen (Glenigan Project ID: 22218314). The project forms part of the wider £350 million Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.

Meanwhile, Manchester’s Wythenshawe town centre is set for transformation following planning approval for a £32 million Culture Hub (Glenigan Project ID: 25175630), the first phase of a £500 million regeneration initiative. Kier is expected to break ground this autumn, targeting completion in early 2027.

Also in Greater Manchester, ICITIES has submitted plans for the 3,000-capacity TraffordCity Arena (Glenigan Project ID: 25308527), introducing an ice rink and event venue on the site of the former Soccer Dome.

Travelodge, a key player in the budget segment, recently acquired two City of London buildings (Glenigan Project ID: 22231054) for conversion into a new hotel near Liverpool Street station. With over 300 potential sites identified nationwide and 11 new hotels opened this year, Travelodge continues to pursue its expansion strategy amid ongoing sector challenges.

While the hotel and leisure construction sector faces a range of economic and operational challenges, several large-scale projects are continuing to move through the pipeline. These developments represent significant opportunities for growth and investment, suggesting that despite a pressured market, key players remain committed to advancing major schemes across the UK.