An Isle of Wight bed and breakfast could be converted into a ‘large family home’ as its owners look to call time on the business.
Following unsuccessful attempts to sell, Martin Bradford has made a change of use application to turn the Knight’s Rest guesthouse on Queens Road, Shanklin, into a private home.
The bed and breakfast’s website describes it as a ‘lovely old building’ dating back to the early 19th century – ‘when the Isle of Wight was emerging as a favoured location for those seeking a seaside holiday or holiday home’.
Now, however, Mr Bradford says the tourism trade has ‘dropped year-on-year’ and is only seasonal.
His application form states:
“Annual takings have dropped year on year, balanced against the high cost of living and utility prices, and many competing hotels have made our business not commercially attractive to buyers.
“Low profits were the main reason given by some viewers who showed genuine interest but were put off by this factor.
“Our guest house would appeal to those seeking a large family home, with an annex for elderly relatives. Alternatively, our guest house would appeal to a developer who could convert the property into three small flats, without any significant structural changes, thereby providing affordable housing in the area.”
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A public consultation on the proposal is scheduled to end on 2nd June, with a decision expected on 23rd June.
If the island keeps allowing B&Bs to be
converted into Private accommodation
There will be less properties available for
tourists to book in too!
It is sadly killing off Tourism on the island and
less employment for island residents.
I know you spend your time pontificating about subjects of which you know net zero, EiE, but this really takes the biscuit. Less B &Bs on the Island means more business for those remaining. Do you really believe a single visitor would be put off visiting the IOW because they couldn’t find a place to stay? I suggest you stick to moaning about proper issues of concern like speeding and drinking/drug driving and residents not being charged additional council tax after home improvements. Well, perhaps not the last subject…
You obviously have no idea
Bless you.
Of course holidaymakers need somewhere to stay.
Keep dreaming.