Boris Johnson at last night's ceremony.

Bojo the builder for 'topping off' ceremony

22nd July 2009, 10:11am

London mayor Boris Johnson has marked a momentous occasion for London, bolting the final beam of the capital's largest purpose-built hotel.

At a staggering 16-storeys, the £350 million Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London hotel will open in spring 2010 with more than 1,000 guest rooms and 2,700 square metres containing new restaurants, a bar and lounge and a luxury spa. The glass-pannelled building replaces the Greater London Council site.

Johnson secured the last bolt in the final beam on the penthouse floor in a 'topping out' ceremony, traditionally marking the completion of a building's external structure.

Overlooking Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, the mayor says the hotel is exactly what the South Bank needs: "This impressive development has removed an awful eyesore that has blighted this corner of the capital for too long.

"A sparkling new hotel is just what the South Bank needs. I am sure it will act as a major springboard for the regeneration plans for Waterloo Station and the surrounding area, on top of creating hundreds of jobs and boosting the local economy."

The hotel's owner and operator Park Plaza Hotels says the new building will employ around 800 people.

"What's more, the huge investment being made today demonstrates great confidence in the future prosperity of our great city," adds Johnson

Director of business tourism for Visit London Tracy Halliwell says: "London is the number one city destination in the world for international travel and Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London will add to the already strong business offer.

"It will provide visitors with a spectacular new hotel with an outstanding range of high-end facilities which will be able to service both leisure and business visitors.

"The construction of the hotel is a real confidence boost to tourism and we are delighted to be supporting them with this official topping out ceremony."

Related Articles:

• 25 Nov 2009 - Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London appoints Conference & Banqueting Director
• 25 Jun 2009 - 'We must ensure that government takes tourism seriously'
• 17 Apr 2009 - Boris Johnson guest speaker at BHA

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