Derelict Part Of Family-Run Hotel Could Become 13 Apartments

A derelict section of an Isle of Wight family-run hotel near the seaside could be transformed into 13 apartments.

Philip Wagstaff of Milverdene Hotels Trading has lodged plans for a conversion of Wentworth House at 23 Hope Road in Shanklin which is linked to the three-star Gracellie Hotel.

The existing building at the site is said to be ‘beyond economic repair’ as part of the hotel, with the only viable use for it as housing, according to the applicant’s agent, Town Planning Expert.

Highways service provider Island Roads has filed an objection to the application however, citing ‘inadequate car parking capacity, layout and turning facilities’.

A submitted statement from Town Planning Expert says:

“Planning permission is sought for the conversion of the building at No. 23 Hope Road from a defunct section of the wider hotel to 13 dwellings with associated car parking, refuse and bicycle storage and landscaping.

“The proposal includes improvements to the physical condition of the building to allow its conversion, including replacements of windows and doors.

“It is recognised that the proposal would result in the loss of some hotel accommodation in Shanklin.

"However the accommodation itself has not been in circulation for some time and it is highly unlikely given cost, viability and availability of competing accommodation in Shanklin that this part of the hotel will be brought back into functional tourist accommodation use.”

The proposed market housing comprises six one-bedroom flats, four with two bedrooms, and three three-bedroom units.

Island Roads’ submission says:

“A total of 13 car parking spaces are proposed, one space per apartment. 16 spaces would be required to be compliant.

“Evidence to support the proposed level of onsite parking provision has not been submitted.

“As a result of a site inspection undertaken by this office, and evaluation of the site accessibility and the impact on existing on-street parking, the proposal could have a negative impact on the surrounding highway network.”

The Isle of Wight Council’s public consultation on proposal 26/00005/FUL ends on February 20 and a decision is expected on April 23.