A prominent seafront hotel in Southsea could be converted into a 24-resident house in multiple occupation (HMO) under plans submitted to Portsmouth City Council.
A prominent seafront hotel in Southsea could be converted into a 24-resident house in multiple occupation (HMO) under plans submitted to Portsmouth City Council.
The application, proposes redeveloping the Q8 Boutique Hotel on Clarence Parade. The hotel currently has 17 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 34 guests. Under the proposal, it would become an 18-bedroom HMO following the construction of a single-storey rear extension.
Planning documents describe the property as occupying a “prominent seafront location” that makes a positive contribution to the streetscape. They also highlight its close proximity to public transport, local services, employment opportunities, educational facilities and leisure amenities.
The hotel opened in 2018 and overlooks Southsea Common on Clarence Parade, an area historically associated with high-quality hotels and residential properties.
The application has so far attracted three public objections. One resident described the proposal as an “inappropriate over-development” that would cause “severe harm” to the area. They argued it conflicts with the council’s Southsea Seafront Strategy by replacing tourist accommodation with high-occupancy housing, potentially harming the character of the conservation area.
Objectors also claimed Southsea is already heavily saturated with HMOs, raising concerns about parking pressures, increased noise and waste. One resident warned that additional household rubbish could worsen existing problems with overflowing bins, fly-tipping and vermin, while another called for a full assessment of the development’s impact on the local community.
Original story from LDRS
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