City Council Selects George Street Redevelopment Partner
31st October 2023
Oxford City Council has selected Marick Real Estate as the development partner for 38-40 George Street, following a competitive public procurement process.
Marick Real Estate has partnered with Makespace Oxford to deliver a new cultural community space in the town centre, alongside an aparthotel, operated by Dublin-based operator Staycity Group, under its premium Wilde brand.
Plans will also include improvements to the public realm and incorporate sustainable practices in both building design and throughout construction. As part of the agreement the development will also offer apprenticeships for people in Oxford both during construction and the forthcoming hotel operations and committed to paying all staff at the aparthotel the Oxford Living Wage.
Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council and Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy and Partnerships said: “This is a once-in-a-generation redevelopment. We are extremely excited to see the building regenerated. Oxford City Council has been encouraging more hotels to open in Oxford city centre to help boost the local economy. Those staying overnight spend, on average, about 1.5 times more than those on day trips so providing central accommodation is vital.”
Patrick Going, managing director at Marick Real Estate said: “We are delighted to have been selected for this project working with the City Council, engaging with the local community and stakeholders to regenerate the George Street site for a new aparthotel and much needed community space.”
Simon Walford, Staycity’s development director UK, commented: “Aparthotels are becoming an increasingly popular option for overnight stays and city breaks with both business and leisure travellers so we hope our Wilde brand will enhance and broaden Oxford’s existing accommodation offer. We look forward to becoming a part of the business community in George Street and more widely in Oxford.”
Andy Edwards, director at Makespace Oxford said: “We can’t wait to start working with our neighbours and local residents to co-create a place for the diverse communities of Oxford to come together, celebrate our culture and creativity, and support each other in tackling some of the big challenges of our time.”