Owner of Harbourmaster Hotel and Cliff Hotel & Spa Granted Permission to Convert Historic Building
By [Your Name], Staff Reporter
Wells Jones, the owner of Ceredigion’s esteemed Harbourmaster Hotel and Cliff Hotel & Spa, has been given the green light by Ceredigion Council to renovate a historic hotel in Cardigan’s conservation area into flats. The Grade-II-listed Highbury House Hotel, located in Pendre, will undergo a transformation from two dwellings into seven flats under the approved plan. This decision comes after a previous application for eight flats in late 2023 was rejected. The revised scheme includes a reduction in the number of flats along with other modifications.
The architect firm Archi-Tech, representing the project, highlighted the historical significance of Highbury House Hotel, which was part of the county gaol designed by John Nash in the late 18th century. Following the gaol’s closure in 1878, the site was repurposed into villas. The conversion into flats aims to preserve the historic layout of the building, ensuring minimal impact on its original features.
According to an officer’s report supporting the approval, the building, originally known as Brooklands and Highbury, was established in the late 19th century. Over the years, it transitioned from residential usage to a hostel and later a children’s home. In 1992, the building was listed for its historical importance, despite undergoing multiple inappropriate alterations internally and externally.
The report also addressed the financial aspect of the project, stating that the conversion of listed buildings like Highbury House Hotel often poses challenges in providing affordable housing contributions due to higher maintenance costs. As a result, the proposal does not require an affordable housing contribution but is subject to specific conditions before the new use can commence.
While the proposed change of use was deemed appropriate, further details are needed to ensure the development aligns with regulations and infrastructure upgrades. Conditional approval was granted, specifying that the conversion should not proceed until waste water treatment facilities in Cardigan are upgraded.
This project showcases a delicate balance between preserving historical architecture and adapting to modern needs, reflecting the evolution of heritage properties in contemporary settings. The transformation of Highbury House Hotel signifies a step towards sustainable development while safeguarding the cultural legacy of Cardigan’s architectural heritage.
As the renovation progresses, the community can anticipate witnessing the revival of a significant landmark, bridging the past with the present in a harmonious blend of preservation and revitalization. Stay tuned for further updates on this exciting venture that combines history, architecture, and innovation in the heart of Cardigan’s conservation area.
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