Zurich site hotel plans get their first airing to Portsmouth public

Key stakeholders had a first glimpse at plans to bring up to 300 hotel rooms to Portsmouth city centre at a Portsmouth City Council developer’s forum.

THAT Group, who recently completed work on the new Hilton in Bournemouth, is working on plans for land next to the former Zurich building on Stanhope Road.

The council brought the developer together with councillors, local businesses and local community groups, such as the Portsmouth Society, to discuss the potential plans.

Along with the extensive hotel space, potential elements discussed included ground floor restaurants, bars, and office space.

Improvements to the public space around the site are also key parts of the plans to maximise the potential of the prime city centre space.

Cllr Luke Stubbs, Deputy Leader of Portsmouth City Council, chaired the meeting and felt it was a positive exercise.

He said: “We like to try to bring developers and the community together at an early stage so plans can be looked at and there’s ample opportunity to discuss and address any concerns long before a planning application is submitted.

“The meeting was very positive, it’s a prime location in the city centre and one we’re keen to make the most of. Improving Portsmouth’s hotel offering is a priority for the council and hopefully this is a step in the right direction.”