Councils officers continue to raise serious concerns about plans to create an “oppressive” 19-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO) on a narrow alley behind the derelict Grand Central Hotel in Weston-super-Mare, even as councillors have expressed support for the controversial proposal.
Developer Taelon Ltd aims to restore the once-grand seafront hotel, which has stood empty and deteriorating for decades, by converting it into 28 flats. However, the company maintains that the overall project will only be financially viable if they are also permitted to convert the rear extensions into a 19-bedroom HMO, accessed via the tight York Street alleyway.
Planning officers at North Somerset Council have warned that the HMO would result in “an unpleasant and oppressive place to live,” citing concerns over cramped living conditions and the challenging environment of York Street. Nevertheless, councillors were willing to set aside these warnings in March, approving the project to support the broader aim of revitalising the historic site.
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The planning committee gave unanimous consent to the hotel-to-flats conversions, though the HMO’s approval was more contentious. Ultimately, councillors agreed to the HMO on the condition that the flats would be completed before any residents move into the shared house. Because this decision diverged from officer advice, council protocol requires the matter to return for committee confirmation on April 15.
In response, Taelon Ltd insists the HMO’s conditions can be properly managed. A spokesperson emphasized their commitment to revitalising a long-abandoned building in a sustainable town centre location, stating: “We don’t agree that the HMO will provide poor living conditions. The main issues identified — noise and the challenges relating to York Street — can be effectively mitigated.”
They further highlighted the benefits of bringing the property back into use, stressing the substantial investment involved and the anticipated positive impact on the town centre and seafront views. The developer also welcomed imposed planning conditions aimed at addressing concerns and ensuring a coordinated delivery of the project.
Located opposite the Grand Pier, the Grand Central Hotel has been a prominent but decaying landmark for years. The redevelopment plans propose converting the second and third floors into 20 flats, with an additional floor added in the building’s existing architectural style to provide eight more flats, complementing the HMO at the rear.
As the committee revisits the issue, the debate continues between revitalising a cherished local icon and safeguarding quality living conditions for future residents.