Today’s news in brief – 23/4/25
Rose House, a historic 18th-century property in Dundee city centre, is on the market for £1.4m. Originally a specialist care home, it has been recently refurbished for mature student and HMO use. The building features 20 bedrooms, multiple kitchens and living rooms, a gym, and dining facilities. Positioned close to key educational institutions like Abertay University and the University of Dundee, it offers potential as accommodation for students, retreat centres, or high-end contractor lodgings. The sale is managed by Christie and Co, with director Gary Witham noting strong expected interest due to the property’s versatility and quality.
Valor Hospitality has completed the rebranding and refurbishment of two South East England hotels: Voco Southampton and Voco Fareham-Solent. These projects involved full bedroom renovations, sustainable upgrades like energy-efficient lighting and aerated showers, and the launch of signature dining experiences. Voco Fareham-Solent now houses the Brickworks Lounge and Grill, honouring the area’s brickmaking legacy, while Voco Southampton features the Atlantic Gate restaurant, inspired by the local maritime setting. Both hotels offer enhanced leisure and event facilities. This expansion continues IHG’s Voco brand growth and Valor’s commitment to premium hospitality, with more rebrands planned this year.
Lisa Williams has been elected national chair of the UK Housekeepers Association, succeeding Kerry Adams. Williams, who has over 20 years of five-star hospitality experience and currently serves as executive head housekeeper at The Grand, York, took up the position on April 1, 2025. She has received numerous accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 Hotel Housekeeping Honours. Passionate about training and flexible working, she aims to modernise the profession and support the next generation of housekeeping talent.
Bohemia, Jersey’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, has appointed Tom Earnshaw as its new head chef, effective June 8. Earnshaw, who previously worked at renowned establishments like Moor Hall and Northcote, joined Bohemia in 2023 as sous chef. He succeeds Callum Graham, who departs after nine years, five of which he spent as head chef. Earnshaw plans to build on Bohemia’s reputation with a focus on seasonal produce from Jersey and France, continuing to collaborate with trusted local and French suppliers. His promotion has been warmly welcomed by Bohemia owner Lawrence Huggler, who praised Earnshaw’s creativity and leadership.
