A spa, terrace and a high standard of refurbishment have been unveiled as part of a multi-million-pound plan for an Isle of Wight hotel.
New owners of the Albion Hotel in Freshwater Bay, A2K Leisure, have submitted plans to the Isle of Wight council to make it one of the ‘hottest destinations on the South Coast’.
Year-round service employing 60 people
It could see extensions to the 41-bed hotel which is said to be in ‘much need of renovation and repair’, according to planning agents Modh Design, ‘to sustain the future of the business and longevity of the building’.
Once the work is complete, it is hoped the hotel will be open all year round and employ 60 people.
The first of three planning applications
Modh says it will be the first of three planning applications submitted by the Surrey-based company for the Albion Hotel as it undergoes renovation.
The other two applications, which are yet to be submitted, could see a spa building proposed, alterations to the East Terrace area and the parking layout.
Tidy up, brighten and rejuvenate the hotel
The planning agents say the proposed work will tidy up, brighten and rejuvenate the hotel, improving the street scene and surrounding area and become a ‘beacon of positive regeneration’ for the Freshwater Bay area.
The renovation has started on the interior of the building, which forms a large part of the works and does not need planning permission, to upgrade bedrooms, lighting and furniture.
Bringing back Victorian heritage
Planning documents submitted to the council say the works seek to bring back the Victorian heritage and historic elements of the hotel that has been lost throughout the years.
It is thought the hotel hosted a young Queen Victoria while Osborne House was being constructed.
Extensions
Extensions are proposed to extend service areas, improve external guest spaces and create a manager’s accommodation.
Storm shutters are also proposed to be installed on the bedrooms and bar areas on the south of the building as a protective measure.
View the plans
You can view the plans, 23/00610/FUL, on the Isle of Wight council’s website.
The public consultation runs until 15th May 2023.
This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed
Image: © Modh Design
