Plans following the signing of a management agreement for a new five-star hotel in Prague, the developers are J&T Global, based in Prague and the Belgian company Buelens Real Estate. 

Le Royal Méridien Prague will be located in the old part of town in a listed building that is currently being used as the head office of a bank.

When the redevelopment of the property is completed, the hotel, which is due to open in early 2009, will have a minimum of 165 rooms, including 18 suites; meeting rooms; restaurant, bar and street café; a fitness club; and parking.

Michael Wale, Senior Vice President Le Méridien Operations, said, "We are thrilled to be announcing a new Le Méridien hotel in Prague - especially as this is the first hotel signing for Le Méridien since it became part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts on November 24, 2005.  I am sure this newest hotel in our European portfolio will quickly establish itself as one of the premier hotels in this part of the world."

Roeland Vos, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Europe, Middle East & Africa, said, "This latest addition to the Le Méridien portfolio is an exciting and significant development for Starwood, in that it reflects our focus to grow our newest brand. Le Royal Méridien Prague increases Starwood's commitment to this area of Central Europe, while further expanding on the wonderful Le Méridien properties we can offer our guests around the world. We are delighted to be working with J&T Global and Belgian Buelens Real Estate on this new hotel, and we hope this development is the beginning of a long-term partnership with them both."