Plans To Convert Lake Hotel Into 13-Bed HMO Spark Concerns

Plans to convert a hotel in Lake into a 13-bedroom House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) have prompted concerns over the loss of tourist accommodation, parking pressures and the potential impact on nearby residents.

An application submitted by Lorraine Barratt to alter and convert The Lorron Hotel on Sandown Road is due to be decided by Isle of Wight Council on Thursday (23 July).

Planning documents submitted by agent Trade Plans say the property would be professionally managed with a strong on-site presence to provide day-to-day oversight.

However, neighbour Sarah Henton has objected to the plans, warning they could lead to increased noise, more people coming and going throughout the day and night, and a greater risk of nuisance and anti-social behaviour.

She also raised concerns over parking, saying the proposal does not provide enough spaces for 13 separate households.

"Lake already experiences significant parking pressures," she said.

"The inevitable consequence will be additional parking demand on nearby residential streets, increased congestion, obstruction and inconvenience for existing residents."

Lake Parish Council has taken a neutral stance on the application but says any decision should take into account concerns over possible overdevelopment, the impact on residential amenity and the loss of visitor accommodation.

Resident Elliot Jones also objected, saying the conversion of hotels into HMOs represents a permanent loss of tourism infrastructure for the area.

"While I appreciate the challenges faced by the hospitality industry and recognise that some hotels may no longer be commercially viable, I am deeply concerned about the continued loss of visitor accommodation and the increasing number of former hotels being converted into HMOs," he said.

He also expressed concerns that some former hotels converted into HMOs have deteriorated in appearance and negatively affected the surrounding street scene.

In response, Trade Plans says the development would operate under a strict management regime, with referenced tenants and tenancy agreements containing enforceable conditions to minimise anti-social behaviour.

The agent also says the site will provide seven parking spaces, is close to local services and public transport, and has historically accommodated a similar or greater number of people when operating as a hotel.

Addressing concerns over the loss of tourist accommodation, Trade Plans says bookings at the hotel have been in "significant and ongoing" decline, adding that the business is no longer financially viable.