Town Council Backs Plan To Convert Shanklin Hotel Into Flats

A proposal to convert a Shanklin hotel in a “very poor state of repair” into residential flats has received qualified backing from the town council.

Shanklin councillors have agreed to support Harry Roe’s application to transform the Esplanade Hotel, 32 Esplanade, into six two-bedroom apartments.

The plans have divided opinion so far, with four objections submitted by members of the public and four representations in support – including from Shanklin Town Council (STC).

An STC spokesperson said the council supports the change of use from a former hotel to residential flats, provided the development is completed to a high standard.

They added that the external appearance of the building should be sympathetic to the character and appearance of surrounding properties.

Those opposing the application have raised concerns, including a perceived need for more holiday-let accommodation in the area, concerns that the apartments would be out of reach for many Islanders, and arguments that the plans would not benefit the local economy.

One objector, Sarah Bigland, said she opposes the change of use, noting that the neighbouring half of the former hotel was converted into holiday lets around 11 years ago.

She highlighted the success of those properties, saying they had received recognition in the Red Funnel Awards and were consistently fully booked during peak seasons.

She added that there is a shortage of holiday accommodation along the seafront and said she would like to see the building continue to provide high-quality holiday stays.

Supporters of the scheme argue that the vacant building is negatively affecting the appearance of the Esplanade and question whether the property remains viable as holiday accommodation.

A decision on the planning application is expected on 23rd March.