Office-to-hotel conversion planned at Liverpool One

Liverpool-based developer YPG has submitted plans for a boutique hotel across seven floors in Russell Building, on the corner of School Lane and Peter’s Lane within the Liverpool One estate.

YPG has taken a long lease from landlord Grosvenor Europe on 17,500 sq ft within the building, which was made up of vacant office floors and ground floor retail units.

The hotel would be situated across the basement and first to sixth floors.

If approved, the hotel will feature 50 guest bedrooms, a rooftop bar, gym, offices, and a conference room as well as a coffee lounge on the first floor.

YPG is currently progressing a number of projects in Liverpool, including a joint venture with The Contact Company to build a 45,000 sq ft call centre at Monarch’s Quay. YPG is also planning to begin work on the £50m Islington apartments scheme in July. The 1.4-acre site at 33 Gildart Street includes three towers ranging from seven to 10 storeys.

YPG said it was in advanced talks with an operator for the Liverpool One hotel, with work set to begin this summer and opening in spring 2019, subject to consent.

YPG is led by managing director Ming Yeung, and the team also includes development director Chris Bliss, a former estate director of Liverpool One for Grosvenor.

Yeung said: “Our plans will create a landmark hotel that will provide something special that complements both Liverpool One and the wider city centre.”

Alison Clegg, director, asset management at Grosvenor Europe, said: “Liverpool One attracts visitors from across the UK, many of whom use it to enjoy one of the best line-ups of brands in the country and as a base to explore the wider city.

“We have been working closely with YPG on their plans and are confident they will create something exciting for Liverpool One and the city alike.”