GMI Construction Secures £60m Dakota Hotel Contract at Manchester Airport
GMI Construction has been awarded a £60 million contract to develop a Dakota Hotels boutique hotel near Manchester Airport. The project is part of the ambitious MIX Manchester development—a 2 million square foot science and innovation campus, transforming the area around one of the UK’s busiest airports. The hotel will feature 154 rooms and bring an estimated £12 million annually to the local economy, creating 150 jobs during and after construction.
Construction work is slated to begin following planning approval, with the hotel being a key addition to Dakota Hotels’ expanding portfolio. GMI Construction’s role in delivering this project further solidifies its standing as a leader in high-profile developments across the UK.
Expanding Luxury Footprint
Dakota Hotels, a luxury hospitality brand known for offering refined and high-end experiences, is expanding its presence in Manchester. This new location near the airport will be the brand’s second hotel in the city, complementing the existing Dakota on Ducie Street.
Renowned for blending luxury with modern amenities, Dakota Hotels cater to discerning business travelers and tourists seeking a premium experience. This latest addition aims to provide business travelers with an upscale stay, located conveniently near Manchester Airport. The Dakota hotel brand continues to position itself as a premier choice for visitors, enhancing its reputation in key UK cities.
A Hub for Innovation
The new Dakota Hotel is an integral part of the MIX Manchester project, a visionary development designed to create a hub of science, innovation, and advanced manufacturing near Manchester Airport. Spanning 2 million square feet, MIX Manchester aims to attract global business, researchers, and technology-driven companies, further elevating the city’s status as a center for innovation.
Backed by key stakeholders like Columbia Threadneedle Real Estate, Manchester Airports Group, and Beijing Construction Engineering Group International (BCEGI), the development will house cutting-edge research and innovation facilities. The hotel is expected to play a pivotal role in catering to business travelers and experts drawn to this emerging campus.
Key Features of the Dakota Hotel
The new Dakota Manchester Airport hotel will boast 154 rooms and several high-end amenities, including a brasserie-style restaurant, a premium bar, and dedicated shuttle service to the airport terminals. The property’s design, led by KPP Architects, focuses on providing a refined yet functional experience.
Located on a three-acre plot, the hotel will offer 130 parking spaces and easy access to Manchester Airport, appealing to both international travelers and local guests. Its luxurious offerings and strategic placement ensure that it will be a popular choice for high-profile visitors.
Economic Impact and Regional Benefits
The Dakota Hotel is expected to significantly boost the local economy, generating an estimated £12 million annually. The creation of 150 new jobs will provide employment opportunities in both construction and hospitality. As part of the broader regeneration framework, the hotel will not only elevate Manchester’s reputation as a business hub but also contribute to the area’s transformation into a premier science and innovation destination.
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