The Three Quays development occupied a historic riverside location on the River Thames in London where three separate trading quays – Galley Quay, Chester Quay and Brewers Quay – once stood. In 1998 detailed planning consent was obtained for the development of a 233 bedroom hotel designed by Terry Farrell and Partners, replacing the existing vacant office building on the site. Within walking distance of the major financial institutions of the City of London, adjoining the western boundary of the Tower of London and within the Tower Conservation Area, this was both a prominent and sensitive site.

Planning permission allowed for a full-service hotel with associated conference and leisure facilities on the basement, ground, first and nine upper floors. Retail and restaurant units were planned at ground level opening out to a River Plaza.