The Council of Ministers was yesterday, Thursday, shown a presentation by the preferred developer of the Douglas bus station site of proposals for this important development location.

Askett Hawk Developments were selected by the Council of Ministers from a short-list of three to provide the complex. There was an original show of interest from 14 developers.

" Askett Hawk has a strong track record in hotel development and consulting and, whilst no specified operator is identified at present, their previous clients include Hilton, Renaissance and Hyatt.
They have been involved in a major development adjacent to Bournemouth Conference centre. They have an excellent track record in delivering quality mixed use and regeneration schemes".

The initial concept was for a 150 room four star hotel with shops and 75 apartments. Designed by architects Hopkins, the 215,000 square foot scheme would provide the hotel, incorporating conference and health and fitness facilities.
There would be nine retail and leisure units, plus the apartments and 180 parking spaces.

It is hoped the scheme will generate significant return for government as well as providing the spark that will start wholesale re development of the area.

Its understood a long lease will be granted to the company for the site, but the freehold will remain with the government.