Ballymore confirmed this week that US operator Starwood Hotels & Resorts has entered into an agreement to open a new 198-bedroom Westin Hotel &Spa at Ballymore's Snowhill scheme. The facility will give Birmingham its first five star hotel. The hotel, which is due to open in early 2010, will form part of Phase III of the development, where Ballymore commenced construction last August. The property will occupy a landmark 23-storey tower overlooking St Chad's Cathedral.