Luton flight simulator centre will convert into budget hotel

A former flight simulator centre at Luton airport is to be converted into a new £6m hotel after planning permission was granted last week.​

Developers Office Villages Ltd has drafted in Liverpool architects Falconer Chester Hall to design the 120-bedroom hotel, which will also incorporate 370sq m of adjoining commercial space.

The former warehouse will have new floors inserted around a central lightwell to improve its function as a hotel, while a bright contemporary exterior will mask all its former features.

Project manager Lee Bailey, said work was likely to start on the development in June now Luton Borough Council has approved the build.

“The development will take around 10 months, so we expect to be completed about this time next year,” he said. “ We are currently in talks with a management company for the hotel, which won’t be announced until we start work, but the hotel will definitely sit in the budget end of the market.”

Luton airports budget hotels​

Budget hotels currently operating close to Luton airport include Holiday Inn Express, Ibis and Premier Inn.