Approval Granted for Conversion of East Sussex Hotel into Shared Housing
Introduction
Planning permission has been granted. The defunct Crockstead Farm Hotel in rural East Sussex will become a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). An appeal passed after the local council’s initial no made this change possible. The decision meets the need for low-cost housing as the area looks to serve more people.
Background on the Hotel’s Closure
Crockstead Farm Hotel, near Halland, closed in March 2020. COVID-19 hit the hospitality sector hard. Many hotels like this one had to change how they work. The plan now uses the hotel space for shared housing. The change makes the building useful for the community and gives more shelter options.
Details of the Conversion Proposal
The plan changes 12 old hotel rooms into HMO units. Each room comes with its own private bath and toilet, along with access to a shared kitchen and utility room. Most of the work to change the rooms was already done when the planning request was filed. The developers acted with foresight and care.
Initial Council Rejection and Reasons
In April 2024, the Wealden District Council first said no. The council said the rural spot was not right for living. They also noted that the area has few services and limited transport. A council member said low-income residents may struggle as most travel there by car.
Planning Inspector’s Rationale for Approval
The planning inspector looked at the site with fresh eyes. The inspector judged that making new housing beats the problems of the hotel’s remote spot. The inspector noted that few residents and their usual trips would not change local travel much. In his words, “Overall, the negative effects from this site do not outweigh the benefits.” This view fits with the National Planning Policy Framework that supports sound growth in housing-limited areas.
Importance of HMOs in Addressing Housing Shortages
This change is timely as many UK regions face a lack of affordable homes. HMOs help by giving shared living spaces that serve many people with limited incomes. In property, using an old hotel in this way is a smart way to meet home needs. For property investors and those in the market, this decision shows a new method for reusing existing buildings to solve housing issues.
Conclusion
The approval to convert Crockstead Farm Hotel into shared living units shows a strong move to use old buildings for new housing. The case stands as proof that HMOs work well as affordable lodging when communities need them most. As councils and market players work on these housing challenges, this case stands as an example of new thinking in response to the housing shortage.
References
- Wealden District Council Planning Portal Planning Application Reference
- National Planning Policy Framework UK Government
- SussexWorld News Crockstead Farm Approval Story
This review of the recent HMO conversion shows both insights and practical hints for property investors who want to work in rural areas and find new paths in housing.
