The planners behind Dundee’s £1 billion waterfront redevelopment project are calling on the UK hospitality industry to invest in the vision.
Dundee City Council has set up a new hotline for interested parties to come forward and discuss possible commercial opportunities in the waterfront zone.
A variety of owner managed restaurants, bars, catering enterprises and hotels such as Malmaison have already moved into the area, but planners believe more will be required to service an estimated three million extra visitors to the city between 2015 and 2025.
The flagship waterfront project the £45 million V&A design museum which is to be built at Craig Harbour is due to open its doors in 2015.
“The dramatic growth in visitor numbers over the next decade will create significant demand for much-needed new accommodation, restaurants, bars, retail and allied businesses.
“We already estimate the city will need five hotels offering 100 beds each and are urging hotel operators to consider opening new ventures,” they say.
“We have set up a hospitality industry investment hotline for any businesses interested in finding out more about investment opportunities in the new Dundee: 01382 433306.”
Gary Thomson, joint owner operator of independent bar/restaurants company FullerThomson, said he was delighted with the opportunities for expansion in Dundee.
He said: “We would encourage other operators to take a fresh look at the city, which is on track to grow rapidly.”