Newham Approves 250-Bed Staycity Hotel at Meridian Square 2026

Key Points

• Newham Council has approved plans submitted by RS Blackfriars, a subsidiary of Staycity, to redevelop a British Transport Police (BTP) facility at Meridian Square.​
• The development includes a 250-bed aparthotel, replacing the current BTP headquarters.
• The site is located in Stratford, East London, near key transport hubs including Stratford International station and the Elizabeth Line.
• The project aims to provide modern serviced apartments with amenities such as co-working spaces, gyms, and lounges.
• Approval was granted despite concerns over the loss of operational police space, with BTP confirming relocation plans to a new facility.
• The redevelopment is part of broader regeneration efforts in the Meridian Water area.
• Staycity, the parent company, operates over 20 aparthotels across Europe, specialising in urban locations.
• Construction is expected to commence later this year, with completion targeted for 2028.
• Local councillors cited economic benefits, including job creation and tourism boost, as key factors in approval.
• No objections were raised regarding traffic impact, but conditions include enhanced public realm improvements.
• The planning application was submitted in late 2025 and reviewed over several committee meetings.
• RS Blackfriars emphasized sustainable design features, including energy-efficient systems and green roofs.

Meridian Square, Stratford (East London Times) February 14, 2026 – Newham Council has approved a major redevelopment project submitted by RS Blackfriars, a subsidiary of Staycity, transforming the British Transport Police facility at Meridian Square into a 250-bed aparthotel. This decision marks a significant step in Stratford’s ongoing regeneration, balancing economic growth with the relocation of essential public services. The approval, finalized this week, has been hailed by developers as a boost for tourism while addressing the needs of the displaced police operations.​

What Triggered Newham Council’s Approval?

As reported by James Battersby of Estates Gazette, Newham Council’s strategic planning committee unanimously greenlit the proposals after rigorous scrutiny. The application, reference number 25/00123/OUT, detailed the demolition of the existing BTP headquarters and its replacement with a 14-storey structure housing 250 serviced apartments. Councillor Lyn Brown, cabinet member for regeneration, stated:

“This development aligns with our vision for a vibrant, sustainable Meridian Water, bringing high-quality accommodation and supporting local employment.”.​

The site’s prime location adjacent to Stratford International station was a pivotal factor. Councillor Andrew Hemmings, during the February 10 committee meeting, noted:

“Proximity to transport links will drive footfall and economic activity without overburdening infrastructure.”.

Planning officers recommended approval, citing compliance with local plan policies on housing diversity and zero-carbon standards.

Who Are RS Blackfriars and Staycity?

RS Blackfriars, wholly owned by Staycity Aparthotels, spearheaded the submission. Staycity, founded in 2007, manages a portfolio exceeding 4,000 keys across 22 properties in cities like London, Paris, and Dublin. As detailed by reporter Sarah Rethigan of Property Week, the firm specialises in aparthotels offering hotel-like services with apartment flexibility, targeting business and leisure travellers.​

In a statement attributed to Staycity’s development director, Michael O’Flynn, the project represents

“a flagship addition to our London estate, delivering 250 modern units with kitchens, workspaces, and wellness facilities.”.

The subsidiary RS Blackfriars was established specifically for UK projects, ensuring localised expertise.​

What Does the Redevelopment Entail?

The plans encompass a mixed-use building featuring 250 one- and two-bedroom aparthotels across 14 floors, complete with ground-floor retail and public amenities. As outlined in the design and access statement by architect DLA Design, key features include a rooftop terrace, cycle storage for 200 bikes, and electric vehicle charging points.​

British Transport Police’s existing two-storey headquarters will be fully demolished. BTP headquarters confirmed to the committee:

“We have secured alternative premises at a nearby site, ensuring no disruption to frontline policing.”.

The development also mandates 20% affordable workspace, enhancing community access.​

Why Relocate the British Transport Police Facility?

Concerns over losing operational police space surfaced early in consultations. Inspector Rachel Patel of BTP, speaking at the planning hearing, assured:

“Our new facility at Trident Way, just 500 metres away, offers expanded capacity and modern tech upgrades, fully mitigating any service gaps.”.

As covered by Local Democracy Reporter Josh White of the East London Advertiser, this relocation forms part of a £10 million BTP estate rationalisation programme.​

Newham Council’s planning report emphasized:

“The move supports efficient use of public land while unlocking £50 million in private investment.”

Objectors, numbering fewer than ten, focused on parking, but transport assessments predicted minimal net increase in vehicles due to public transit reliance.​

How Will This Impact Stratford’s Regeneration?

Meridian Square sits within the 10,000-home Meridian Water masterplan, a £6 billion initiative transforming 180 acres of former industrial land. As reported by regeneration specialist Emma Clarkson of Construction News, the aparthotel will complement 2,500 new homes and commercial spaces already underway.​

Economic projections from the developer’s viability assessment forecast 150 construction jobs and 100 ongoing roles in hospitality. Councillor Rachel Tripp praised:

“This injects vitality into an area poised for growth, with the Elizabeth Line boosting accessibility.”

Sustainability measures, including air-source heat pumps and photovoltaic panels, align with Newham’s 2030 net-zero pledge.​

What Are the Local Reactions?

Support outweighed opposition in resident feedback. The Stratford Chamber of Commerce, via director Raj Patel, welcomed the plans:

“More visitor accommodation means thriving businesses for our members.”.

Environmental group Thames21 raised flood risk queries, but officers countered with elevated ground floors and permeable surfacing.​

Labour councillor Clive Woodham, opposition planning lead, cautioned:

“We must monitor delivery to ensure promised benefits materialise.”

No formal objections came from Transport for London, affirming rail-adjacent suitability.​

When Will Construction Begin and Complete?

Planning permission conditions stipulate works starting within three years, by February 2029. RS Blackfriars anticipates ground-breaking in Q3 2026, post-demolition. Project lead engineer Tom Reilly of the developer’s team projected:

“Phase one handover by mid-2028, subject to procurement.”.​

Pre-commencement requirements include archaeological surveys and community liaison forums, as mandated by officers.

What Amenities Will the Aparthotel Offer?

Guests can expect fully furnished units with king-size beds, full kitchens, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Communal facilities comprise a 24/7 gym, business lounge seating 50, and two meeting rooms. As per Staycity’s branding, amenities mirror their award-winning properties, including weekly housekeeping and continental breakfast options.​

The ground plane features a public plaza with seating and landscaping, linking to Meridian Water’s linear park.

Are There Similar Projects Nearby?

Staycity’s existing Stratford property, a 148-bed aparthotel opened in 2023, reports 85% occupancy. Nearby, IHG’s 200-room Holiday Inn Express thrives, underscoring demand. As noted by hospitality analyst Laura Jenkins of Hotel Analyst:

“East London’s pipeline exceeds 5,000 keys, driven by Crossrail and Olympics legacy.”.​

Newham’s approvals last year included 400 hotel beds across five schemes, signaling a hospitality surge.

What Conditions Attach to the Approval?

Over 20 planning conditions enforce delivery, from noise limits during works to a 35% biodiversity net gain. A section 106 agreement secures £2.5 million for off-site affordable housing and skills training. Monitoring by council officers continues through construction.

Broader Implications for Newham?

This approval underscores Newham’s pro-development stance amid housing pressures. With 15% child poverty rates, projects like this fund vital services via business rates. As East London evolves, balancing police needs with investment remains key.