We want to build a floating hotel in Salford Quays like in London and Antigua - it could open in 2025

The Good Hotel Salford is set to become the area’s newest landmark if approved, with 180 guest rooms and an open plan living room with a bar and restaurant area. The vessel would be built offsite in a shipyard, and transported to Salford.

It would be based in the North Bay next to the Lowry Theatre, a two-minute walk from the MediaCityUK tram stop, with access for vehicle deliveries from an existing footway and service road.

The firm behind the plans – The Good Hospitality Group – has launched a consultation about the scheme ahead of submitting a planning application to Salford council, running until August 9. It is aiming to dock the vessel in Salford Quays by early 2026, but says it could come as soon as autumn 2025 depending on the planning process.

The group runs other hotels in London’s Royal Docks, Antigua and Guatemala City. It aims to create not just hotels but ‘centres for connection, learning, and community engagement.’

Alongside the proposed hotel vessel, the firm is in talks with Salford council about running training programmes to support people who are looking for long-term employment. It already runs four training sessions per year in London, each with around 15 participants.

Marten Dresen, founder of The Good Hospitality Group, said: “We are hugely excited to bring our floating Good Hotel concept to Salford Quays: a thriving tourist and commercial destination. We will collaborate with local partners and establish a successful training programme, mirroring the success we have experienced in London where hundreds of trainees have so far completed our Good Training Programme.

“As we prepare to submit our plans, we’re committed to providing meaningful opportunities for local residents, helping them secure long-term employment and contributing positively to the community.”

Salford Quays is recognised as one of the UK’s most successful regeneration projects, having been transformed since the closure of the docks in 1982. Since then, it has gone on to become a cultural and creative hub, home to companies such as the BBC and ITV, and residents living in high rise flats along the waterways. It is a popular destination for tourism in Greater Manchester, drawing visitors to its numerous retail outlets, restaurants, and attractions.