Decision expected in New Year on controversial 'apart hotel'
A decision on controversial plans to turn a former bank on Gloucester Road into a block of serviced apartments is expected next month. More than 90 objections have been made to the proposals to redevelop the old Nat West at the junction of Shadwell Road.
Honor Properties Ltd has applied to convert it into nine flats with a new rear extension. The ground floor fronting Gloucester Road would be retained as a commercial unit with the current tenant.
An agent’s letter forming part of the application states: “In terms of apart-hotel use, as short-stay accommodation guests occupying the apartments will be limited to minimum stays of 5 days and a maximum stay of 180 days. Guests will be provided with fully furnished accommodation, kitchen equipment, china, glass ware and cutlery. Bed linen and towels will also be provided with it changed twice a week.”
Objections to the plans centre around a lack of parking in an already congested area and the unsuitability of serviced accommodation in an area that needs residential property.
The proposals are due to be determined by a government planning inspector on January 25. It follows a planning logjam at Bristol City Council resulting in a government order which effectively denies elected councillors the right to make a local decision.
