The site above the Havana nightclub, which will be developed into a hotel. Photo: Chris Sant FournierPaceville mogul Hugo Chetcuti is set to start developing a third hotel in Paceville, this time above the popular Havana nightclub.
The proposed hotel was given the green light by the Planning Commission at a hearing yesterday after minor alterations were made to the plans. It had been slated for approval.
According to the plans for the hotel, it will replace offices above the long-standing nightclub in the heart of St George’s Street. Mr Chetcuti also owns the iconic nightclub, one of the most – if not the most – popular in Paceville.
The plans, made available on the Planning Authority website, show that the hotel will be set across eight floors, with 87 suites. It will also include an indoor and outdoor pool, jacuzzis, a sizable roof deck and a large dining area.
According to a case officer’s report, the hotel is set to be an “iconic building” within the Paceville environment.
None of the consulted authorities objected to the development, including the Commission for Persons with Disability, utilities providers and even the transport authority.
The hotel will be set a crosseight floors,with 87 suites
The PA report, which recommends approving the development, says that the project is well within the development zone and the proposed structure would be in keeping with the surrounding area.
Mr Chetcuti has already developed one hotel in the clubbing district, Hugo’s Boutique Hotel, with an investment of over €10 million. The hotel includes gyrating beds and lavish interiors, was inaugurated by Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis last month.
Mr Chetcuti has over the years become synonymous with the Paceville area, amassing a sizeable portion of the nightlife mecca.
Started by his father, he went from owning the Footloose Bar to opening a series of venues, including Hugo’s Passion, the Shadow Lounge, Hugo’s Tapas, Native Bar and Diner, Club 121 as well as many other places of entertainment.