LONDON‑Hilton Worldwide plans to redevelop and reflag Hilton London Docklands Riverside as DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands hotel this year. The hotel will continue to operate under a Hilton Worldwide management agreement with owner H.I.G. Capital and joins 10 DoubleTree by Hilton hotels in Greater London.
Patrick Fitzgibbon, SVP, development, Europe & Africa, Hilton Worldwide, said, “The property’s recent sale and lease agreement’s conclusion has created a unique opportunity to redevelop and transition the hotel under our upscale DoubleTree by Hilton brand. Building on our existing relationship with H.I.G. Capital and following a substantial refurbishment program, we are looking forward to introducing new guests to DoubleTree by Hilton in one of London’s prime business districts.”
Sanjoy Chattopadhyay of H.I.G. Capital said, “This is a unique asset in a unique location and we were pleased to invest a substantial sum in its repositioning, consistent with our focus on medium-sized value-add opportunities in the hotel sector.”
The hotel will continue to welcome guests during the redevelopment, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2015, with the hotel operating under the DoubleTree by Hilton brand starting in spring. Renovations planned include refurbishments of the hotel’s 378 guestrooms, reception area, ferry entrance, 16 meeting rooms, Terrace Restaurant, Terrace Lounge Bar, kitchen and staff facilities..
John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton, said, “We are excited to add to this property to DoubleTree by Hilton’s portfolio, further enhancing our offer in central London and catering to growing demand for upscale hospitality in east London’s cultural and business hub.”
Chris King, principal of CS Hotels, who advised H.I.G. Capital, said, “It was clear early on in our discussions with Hilton that we had an opportunity together to create a genuinely unique and attractive hotel distinct from any other hotels serving the same market.”