Plans are underway to transform the long-neglected Grand Central Hotel in Weston-super-Mare into stylish residential apartments. Once a grand hotel facing the iconic Grand Pier, the building has stood empty and deteriorating for decades, with its facade damaged by sea air and the famous clock face removed.
Developers Taelon Ltd have submitted three separate planning applications to North Somerset Council, aiming to rejuvenate the historic building with a total of 28 flats and commercial spaces on the ground floor. The first two applications propose converting the hotel’s upper floors into 20 apartments and adding an additional floor with eight more flats. The developers emphasize their commitment to preserving the architectural integrity of the building, drawing inspiration from Sir Henry Tanner’s original design to ensure a prestigious and unified appearance.
However, the third application, which seeks to convert the old extensions at the rear into a 19-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO), has sparked significant concern. Located down York Street, a narrow alley cluttered with waste bins and industrial debris, the proposed HMO would be hemmed in by other buildings, including a nearby nightclub. Council planning officers have described the space as “an unpleasant and oppressive place to live” due to limited natural light and poor surroundings, advising that the HMO application be refused.
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Despite these concerns, Taelon Ltd insists that the entire project’s viability depends on approval of all three applications. The North Somerset Council planning committee will deliberate on the proposals at their meeting on March 18 at 2.30 pm in Weston-super-Mare Town Hall.