'Eyesore' Bognor Regis building can become an apart-hotel
Plans to turn a neglected Bognor Regis seafront building into an apart-hotel have been approved by Arun District Council.
Change of use was sought from a house to a 12-bed hotel for the former Ancient Mariner Hotel in West Street.
The application for the locally listed building, thought to date back to the 19th century, included improvements to the external elevations and replacement of windows and doors.
Support for the plans was received from Bognor Regis Town Council which said: “Members are pleased to see proposals for this prominent site to be improved.”
A neighbour said: “The proposal will enhance the area. The current state is an eyesore but with investment it will change the perception of Bognor.”
Arun officers said: “The building is situated on a corner and is highly visible from The Esplanade and from the western elevation. The building has been empty for some time and has been falling into disrepair with the
external elevations appearing run down.
“The change of use will consist predominately of internal changes and will largely retain its existing appearance. The building will undergo a general external upgrade in the form of replacement windows and painting which will improve the overall appearance.”
They said an apart-hotel ‘essentially enables individuals to stay for an extended period of time when compared to a traditional hotel or B&B’.
“The development does not provide any parking spaces and is proposed to be car-free.” they said.
Although it is in a controlled parking zone and would require a permit to park, it is near shops and amenities, Hothampton car park, the railway station and bus stops.
“Whilst a nil provision does not comply with guidance, in this case, due to its location in a town centre, it is acceptable,” they said.