Tony Earnshaw, chief executive of window cleaning operation UK Commercial Group, is investing about £1.8m to transform an existing property in Ponteland, close to Newcastle International Airport, into luxury self-catering accommodation.
The self-contained properties will operate under the name Runway Luxury Suites and are designed to appeal to business travellers, holidaymakers wanting to explore the region and other visitors to Northumberland. The development is also aimed at people visiting family and friends in Ponteland and the surrounding area.
Transformation plans
Work is now getting under way on the development, with the works expected to be completed in early 2027. Each suite will feature a luxury bathroom, living and sleeping space and its own kitchenette, as well as on-site parking and fully digital, secure entrances, allowing guests to enjoy the flexibility and privacy of a self-contained stay.
Mr Earnshaw, who is also a property developer, said: “This is a significant personal investment for me and one I am incredibly excited about. The location is fantastic and we have an opportunity to create something a little different from the traditional accommodation available around an airport. We want Runaway Luxury Suites to combine the quality and feel of a luxury hotel with the freedom, privacy and convenience of having your own self-contained space.”
Local benefits
He added: “Being within walking distance of Newcastle Airport is obviously a huge advantage, whether somebody has an early flight, arrives late at night or is travelling to the region on business. But we don't see this purely as airport accommodation. Ponteland is a great place in its own right and we're also perfectly positioned for people visiting family and friends or wanting to spend a few days discovering Northumberland.”
Wherever possible, local tradespeople and suppliers are being used during the refurbishment. Mr Earnshaw said: “I'm particularly pleased that we are able to use local tradespeople and businesses as we carry out the refurbishment. It's a substantial investment and, wherever possible, I want that money to support skills, jobs and businesses here in the North East.”
Mr Earnshaw added: “The aim is somewhere you would actively choose to stay, rather than simply somewhere convenient because you've got a flight the following morning. Work is starting on site now and we're aiming to welcome our first guests before March 2027.”
