First rendering of what will be a 161-room hotel just meters away from Stadium of Light has been presented to the public. Work is to start next year and see the hotel operating as soon as 2015, according to Sunderland Echo.

It’s been known for almost half a year that a Hilton hotel will be built next to Stadium of Light. The 4-floor building will comprise 161 rooms and should further improve the place’s position in organizing large events.

Already now the Black Cats’ home ground is the leader in northern England, but with the nearby Aquatics Centre and the new hotel it should capitalize further on the role. The project will be ran by Sunderland FC Developments, a subsidiary of the football club.

Sunderland City Council acquired the land from the Homes and Communities Agency and granted planning permission. Work could start next year, with an opening date anticipated for summer 2015.

Council cabinet secretary Mel Speding said: “The Stadium of Light area has long been recognised as an area for further development.

“This development, as the committee heard, meets a proven need, being so close to the football club, plus events at the Sunderland Aquatic Centre.” Coun Speding added that the area has excellent transport links and he believes the hotel could be a catalyst for more investment.