UAE-based Select Group has appointed Russell WBHO to deliver external works at the former Mere Hotel in Knutsford, Cheshire.
The contract marks the final phase of a major refurbishment and new-build programme, which is transforming the hotel into the five-star Fairmont Cheshire The Mere Golf Resort & Spa.
Russell WBHO started on site in late 2023 and has since been retained by Select Group for the expansion, refurbishment and fit-out of the new luxury resort. The latest contract brings the total project value to circa £60m and involves hard and soft landscaping across 10,000 sq. m.
Richard Sumner, Project Director at Russell WBHO, said: “We’re looking forward to building on our strong relationship with Select Group. The external works will deliver significant upgrades, including extended and enhanced car parking facilities. All existing areas will be remodelled and resurfaced, providing a total of 324 spaces along with new lighting and electric vehicle charging points.
“We’re delivering these works alongside the resort’s ongoing expansion and refurbishment, which is progressing at pace. Shell and core construction is nearing completion, and the internal fit-out is well underway.”
Russell WBHO’s wider remit includes constructing 24 new bedrooms across three storeys, upgrading 87 existing rooms to a five-star standard, and delivering a new golf pavilion, celebrity restaurant, and entrance area. The resort will also benefit from extended event space, new commercial kitchens, and upgrades to the existing orangery and gastro pub at the golf club.
Israr Liaqat, Group CEO for Select Group, added: “We’re pleased to be working with Russell WBHO to bring the final phase of this exciting project to life. Now rapidly taking the shape, the resort will set a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the North West, providing five-star guest rooms and facilities in the heart of Cheshire.”
The project will see Fairmont Cheshire at The Mere Golf Resort & Spa become Accor’s fourth Fairmont-branded property in the UK, joining Fairmont Windsor Park, Fairmont St Andrews and The Savoy, a Fairmont-managed hotel.
