Opened by Signature Living in 2014 the Grade II-listed 30 James Street Hotel, formerly the headquarters of Titanic owners White Star, now has a new operator. Tony McDonough reports
A new hotel operator is to take over the running of Liverpool’s 30 James Street Hotel with original owner Signature Living now out of the picture.
Located on the corner of James Street and The Strand, the hotel was opened by Signature Living in 2014 in a Grade II-listed building that was originally constructed as the headquarters of the White Star shipping line owner of the ill-fated Titanic.
However, in the last few weeks the hotel was placed in receivership and now receivers Julian Clarke and Matthew Nagle of Savills have announced that another operator, Legacy Hotels, will take over the business.
Legacy Hotels is already well known in the city, operating the Pullman Hotel on the waterfront and opening a Novotel at the new Paddington Village near the University of Liverpool. It currently operates a portfolio of hotels across the UK and Europe.
The new operators are seeking to preserve as many of existing jobs as possible despite what they describe as the “challenging” economic situation brought about by the UK’s coronavirus lockdown.
The hotel, themed around the White Star Line shipping company, comprises 63 nautical-themed rooms, as well as a rooftop terrace bar with waterfront views, a restaurant, events space and spa facilities.
In May, previous operator Signature Living admitted four breaches of food safety and hygiene regulations at 30 James Street at Liverpool Crown Court and was hit with a £60,000 penalty.
The building was designed by celebrated Victorian architect Norman Shaw, who also designed New Scotland Yard in London. It was completed in 1896. The building’s banded red brick and white Portland Stone has earned it the nickname locally as the ‘streaky bacon building’.
Julian Clarke of Savills, said: “We quickly identified that there were some urgent works needed to have the building cleaned up and in good shape for reopening, so we commissioned the builders who are already working on this.
“We also carefully considered our options to reopen the hotel, and we are now delighted to be working with Legacy to bring this about.”
Jim Gordon, managing director of Legacy Hotels and Resorts, added: “This is a new beginning for this historic and beautiful building. The hotel is a key asset for Liverpool’s visitor economy, and it is important that we reopen it as soon as possible as the city begins to open up again after the coronavirus pandemic.
“To that end there will be a significant amount of money invested on much needed repairs and upgrades as well as ensuring that it is thoroughly cleaned to provide assurance to staff and guests as we commence trading, post the Covid lockdown.
“Recent months have proved an extremely difficult time for the hospitality and leisure sector. We are keenly aware that it has been tough for the team at 30 James Street, with profound uncertainty because of the current national health situation. We will do all we can to retain as many existing jobs at the site as possible.”
Legacy are currently working to ascertain the level of forward booked business including any deposits for events or bedroom bookings. For any queries regarding bookings please contact Legacy Hotels on 0151 363 9383 or email 30jsh@legacy-hotels.co.uk