The developers of Milburngate have reached two significant agreements with Whitbread that will see a Premier Inn hotel and a new concept steak restaurant, Bar + Block, open in Durham City.
Joining Durham’s existing Premier Inn on the opposite bank of the River Wear at Freemans Place, the new 92-bed hotel, which is subject to planning approval, will be one of the most contemporary in Whitbread’s portfolio to complement the premium styling and design of Milburngate.
Joining the hotel at the development will be Whitbread’s Bar + Block Steakhouse, which will be the first in the North of England. Combined, the two will create 75 new jobs in Durham City.
With four restaurants across the UK in London Kings Cross, Birmingham, Bath, and Whitley in Hampshire, Bar + Block is an informal all-day dining venue serving breakfast, lunch and dinner with an emphasis on high quality steaks at affordable prices, all hand-cut to order. The restaurant will feature a ‘Butcher’s Block’ with a range of rotating specials, as well as an extensive drinks list.
Whitbread’s Premier Inn hotel and Bar + Block steakhouse are the latest additions announced for the premium Milburngate development. They will take their place alongside independent boutique cinema operator, Everyman and Marston’s bespoke designed bar, Pitcher & Piano.
A landmark development for Durham and the wider North East region, Milburngate will also feature a mix of luxury apartments and high quality offices. Leading to the creation of more than 1,000 new jobs, Milburngate is being developed by Arlington Real Estate and the Richardson family.
Allan Cook, Managing Director of Arlington Real Estate, said: “These agreements not only demonstrate the confidence Whitbread has in Durham City, but also how Milburngate can help position and strengthen two of its important brands.
“Milburngate’s aspirational and premium offering is attracting high quality operators that will enhance and expand the leisure market in Durham and help attract visitors from across the North East and further afield to the city.”
Ben Holmes, Director at Richardsons, said: “Milburngate is a great opportunity for Whitbread to further develop its presence in Durham City to meet the demand for hotel beds in the area while introducing a new concept dining experience to the region. We’re proud to be working with Whitbread and look forward to welcoming the hotel and steakhouse to the development.”
Matt Aubrey, Premier Inn Acquisitions Manager for the North East, said: “We are pleased to have acquired a site for a new 92-bed Premier Inn and Bar + Block restaurant at the Milburngate development in Durham. Milburngate is a major part of the future of Durham city centre and we are excited to be a part of it. Subject to planning permission, the new hotel and restaurant will bring 75 permanent jobs to the area and will offer visitors greater choice and value in Durham.”