In a tightly contested decision, councillors in Weston-super-Mare voted by a single vote to approve plans for a 19-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO), despite strong objections from council planning officers. The approval paves the way for the redevelopment of the long-derelict Grand Central Hotel, a prominent landmark opposite the Grand Pier.
Developers propose converting the historic Grand Central Hotel, vacant for decades, into 28 flats. However, they argued that without permission to create a large HMO in the adjoining extensions on York Street, the project would not be financially viable. York Street, a narrow alleyway, became a focal point for concern due to the proposed HMO’s potential impact on residents’ living conditions.
North Somerset Council’s planning officers had recommended refusal, citing the HMO’s location as “an unpleasant and oppressive place to live” that would significantly harm the wellbeing of future occupants. Yet, at the planning committee meeting on April 15, councillors chose to overrule these warnings. Committee chair Robert Payne acknowledged the concerns but stressed that the wider benefits of regenerating the building and surrounding area justified the compromise.
Previously, the main redevelopment plan for the hotel’s conversion into flats had been unanimously approved. The separate HMO application faced divided opinion, prompting council rules to require a second committee meeting to confirm approval following councillors’ initial decision to grant permission against officer advice.
To reassure council members, developers from Taelon Ltd offered a condition tying the occupation of the HMO to the prior completion of the hotel’s flats redevelopment. Speaking in support, Mahmoud Aziz of Taelon said that while not ideal, they would accept this safeguard to ensure the full regeneration project proceeds.
Councillors voiced mixed feelings. Tom Nicholson (Green Party) expressed admiration for the applicant’s offer but remained concerned about the harmful living conditions. Peter Bryant (Conservative) opposed the application, warning members that approving under these terms amounted to blackmail, given the HMO was conditional on the hotel’s viability.
Despite the controversy, planning officers confirmed the internal layout of the HMO met standards; their objections focused solely on the poor external environment—lack of natural light and views on the alleyway.
Independent councillor Mike Solomon highlighted the subjectivity of living conditions, citing his own experience with basement flats without views but valuing the location’s advantages. He noted the unique benefits of the site’s immediate access to the beach, town centre, and green spaces, balancing out the drawbacks.
Ultimately, councillors voted six to five to grant permission for the HMO. Taelon Ltd expressed optimism about the decision, looking forward to revitalizing the neglected landmark and contributing to Weston-super-Mare’s regeneration.