Today’s news in brief – 28/2/25
Low Wood Bay Resort and Spa in the Lake District has received the prestigious Greengage ECOsmart gold award for its environmental efforts and renewable energy use. The certification, aligned with UN sustainability goals, highlights the hotel’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. The resort also achieved the highest ‘Five Bubble Luxury’ rating from the Good Spa Guide. Around 12% of its annual electricity comes from a hydropower turbine, supplemented by a combined heat and power plant and six EV charging points. A conservation project has seen over 2,500 trees planted. Sister hotels Wild Boar Estate and Lancaster House Hotel also contribute to sustainability through biomass burners, solar panels, and water conservation.
A new restaurant named Zoom will launch in Hyatt Place Leeds City Centre next month. Located in Sovereign Square, it will feature a modern, art-filled space with a globally inspired menu, particularly emphasizing Asian flavors. Signature dishes include crispy beef and a superfood poke bowl, along with a Yorkshire pudding dish. The Market will offer quick meals for city workers, with locally sourced sandwiches, salads, and North Star coffee. The restaurant, open all day, is led by head chef Angelina Au, whose extensive career includes experience in luxury hotels. She aims to create a vibrant space catering to both hotel guests and business professionals.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced Hyatt Select, a new upper-midscale brand aimed at modern travellers. The brand will complement Hyatt Studios and strengthen the company’s presence in secondary markets. Hyatt Select hotels will focus on efficiency and comfort, featuring complimentary breakfast, a 24/7 grab-and-go market, modern guest rooms with workspaces, and free high-speed internet. Designed for both new builds and conversions, the brand offers flexible property sizes, cost-effective operations, and access to Hyatt’s global distribution network. Hyatt aims to provide a balance of affordability and quality while optimizing hotel owners’ investments.
Aberdeen’s five-star Marcliffe Hotel is set for a multi-million-pound renovation, including a new dome-style dining area in the courtyard, offering an indoor-outdoor experience. The upgrades, scheduled from April to December 2025, will also include a luxury bridal suite, enhanced guest rooms, and improved air conditioning. The project is a response to guest feedback from the hotel’s MyMarcliffe survey. The renovations will generate 20-30 jobs, with Aberdeen-based CHAP Group as the main contractor. Balmoral Group, which acquired Marcliffe in 2024, sees this investment as part of its long-term strategy to enhance the hotel’s reputation as a top-tier hospitality destination.
