Floating hotel plan unveiled for Salford Quays
Looking to dock at the North Bay, Netherlands-based architect Ninetynine is drawing up innovative plans for a 180-room vessel on behalf of The Good Hospitality Group.
A pre-planning application consultation has started with a view to the hotel being ready for early 2026, subject to Salford City Council granting planning approval.
This consultation can be accessed via a dedicated website set up for people to give feedback and runs until 9 August. The website can be viewed at goodhotelsalford.co.uk.
Spanning three floors, as well as the guest rooms, features of the hotel would include an open plan living room bar restaurant area open to both guests staying there and the public as the regeneration of Salford Quays continues.
If approved, the hotel would be located to the north of the Lowry Theatre, a two-minute walk from the MediaCityUK Metrolink stop, and within reach of key Greater Manchester attractions.
According to the consultation website, construction and environmental disruption would be minimal with just the installation of two mooring piles and service connections.
The structure would be built offsite in a shipyard in the Netherlands and towed into its final location in one piece with a promise the hotel is adapted to climate change, being flood resilient and “immune to extreme rainfall”.
Guests will be advised that the hotel is car-free when booking but secure cycle parking for both guests and staff will be provided within the vessel.
Access for deliveries from vehicles will be provided from the existing footway on the service road to the north of the Lowry Theatre.
If approved, the vessel is likely to dock in autumn or winter next year, ready for opening in 2026.
Euan Kellie Property Solutions is the planner for the project.
Netherlands-based architect Ninetynine is drawing up plans for a floating hotel at Salford Quays. Credit: Counter Context
The business behind the plan has similar ventures at London’s Royal Docks, Antigua, and Guatemala City.
A spokesperson for The Good Hospitality Group said it will work closely with Salford City Council to bring the plans to fruition and to extend their training programmes to benefit the local community.
Their Good Training Programme offers ongoing hospitality training and career opportunities to local people affected by unemployment.
Discussions are already taking place with Salford about the role the Good Training Programme can play in supporting the area and helping residents secure long-term employment opportunities.
The Good Hospitality Group was founded by Marten Dresen in 2013, who said: “We are hugely excited to bring our floating Good Hotel concept to Salford Quays: a thriving tourist and commercial destination.
“We will collaborate with local partners and establish a successful training programme, mirroring the success we have experienced in London where hundreds of trainees have so far completed our Good Training Programme.
“As we prepare to submit our plans, we’re committed to providing meaningful opportunities for residents, helping them secure long-term employment and contributing positively to the community.”
