Couple seek permission for holiday houseboat in South Downs garden

The couple have lodged a retrospective planning application with Horsham District Council to carry on leasing the houseboat – known as The Cruiser – as an Airbnb.

The houseboat is moored on a lake in the grounds of the couple’s home in Fryern Road, Storrington. Agents Folkes Architects say in a statement to the council that the couple’s home is set in around 4.5 acres of gardens. They were granted planning permission in 2021 to use part of the house as bed and breakfast style accommodation.

“The large garden has a spattering of existing structures, comprising sheds, a boat house, jetties and a timber chalet,” say the agents. “The gardens and lake and most of the structures were created by renowned gardener Hillary Barnes.

"The houseboat – The Cruiser – is a modest structure and reflects the scale of structures that have popped up during the evolution of the garden's creation. It is moored at the edge of the north bank of the lake and accessed via an existing jetty.

"The Cruiser was originally built as ancillary accommodation for the house and as a bit of fun, providing tranquil and beautiful views across the lake to one of two small islands and the mature gardens on the southern bank.

“However, after being used by visiting family, it soon became apparent that the accommodation could be used for Airbnb-style accommodation.”

They add: “The applicant has furnished and decorated the structure to a high and luxurious standard, installed a vehicle charging point, and sewage treatment system.

"All of these are laid out to be convenient and accessible to the short-term occupants. The accommodation provides one double bedroom space, a shower room and WC, a small kitchenette and a hot tub, all reflecting the luxurious nature of the accommodation which is also commensurate to the venue being adult-only, single couples occupancy and the premium price point.”