By Isle of Wight Observer
A proposal has been lodged to convert the long‑vacant Esplanade Hotel in Shanklin into six two‑bedroom flats, with planning consultants Plan Research arguing the deteriorating building now requires full redevelopment.
The application covers 32 Esplanade, a prominent seafront property, within The Bay regeneration area and the Shanklin Conservation Area. The hotel has stood empty since 2020, despite earlier permission to create three holiday apartments and one residential unit. In a Design & Access and Heritage Statement, submitted on behalf of the applicants, Plan Research says extensive marketing since that approval has failed to attract a buyer or operator.
The consultants state the former hotel is no longer viable as tourist accommodation, citing the loss of school‑group bookings during the pandemic, rising operating costs, and a wider downturn in Island tourism. A viability report argues that converting the building into holiday flats would not be financially deliverable, while a structural survey highlights significant defects, including damp, failing render, and required upgrades to floors, ceilings and fire, energy and sound standards.
The scheme proposes internal reconfiguration and several external changes, including a new second‑floor balcony, replacement windows and doors, a new ground‑floor side window and removal of a redundant doorway surround. Plan Research says these works would enhance the conservation area, given the building’s current poor condition.
Four parking spaces exist at the rear, with a parking survey identifying additional capacity within 300 metres (984ft). It is said the development qualifies for 100 per cent Vacant Building Credit, meaning no affordable housing contribution is required.
The application can be viewed via iw.observer/planning‑portal. Consultation is open until February 27, and the planning reference is 25/01844/FUL.