What's Happening?
Whitbread has received planning permission to convert Dorset House, a former office building in Southwark, London, into a 421-room hotel under its hub by Premier Inn brand. This marks the first hub by Premier Inn south of the River Thames and is part of Whitbread's expansion efforts in Central London. The company acquired the 90,000 square foot Dorset House freehold in May 2025 and initiated discussions with Southwark Council to change the building's use from office to hotel. The conversion will maintain the existing structure's floorplate, adding compact hotel rooms and a new entrance on Stamford Street. The design includes a basement-level food and beverage area visible from the ground floor through cut-out concrete sections. Construction
is scheduled to commence in the latter half of 2026, with the hotel expected to open in summer 2028.
Why It's Important?
This development is significant as it reflects Whitbread's strategic expansion in the competitive London hotel market. By converting office spaces into hotels, Whitbread is capitalizing on the demand for centrally located accommodations, particularly in areas with high foot traffic and proximity to major transport hubs like Waterloo and Blackfriars Stations. The project is part of a broader initiative to increase Whitbread's UK and Ireland hotel estate by 45%, aiming for a long-term target of 125,000 rooms. This expansion not only enhances Whitbread's market presence but also aligns with its sustainability goals, as all new hotels will operate using electricity from renewable sources.
What's Next?
Following the planning approval, Whitbread will begin construction in late 2026, with the hotel slated to open by summer 2028. The company will continue to focus on its expansion strategy, which includes other acquisitions such as 35 Red Lion Square and Phoenix House, further increasing its footprint in London. These developments are expected to contribute significantly to Whitbread's growth objectives and its commitment to sustainability.
