An Isle of Wight hotel which has been empty for years and ‘in a state of decline’ could be brought back to life — but as a private home.
It was hoped when the Ventnor Towers Hotel, on Madeira Road, sold in May 2021 it would be refurbished and updated to operate as a hotel again, according to Network Auctions.
Due to its current condition, its new owner, Paul Clark of HGE Limited, has said it would not be economically viable to re-open the hotel.
Instead, Mr Clark is looking to turn the 30-bed hotel into a single house, with a gym, games room and at least six bedrooms.
The building is in a very poor condition with multiple water leaks and plans say no significant upgrades have been made for years which makes it not suitable for paying guests.
Negative reviews of the hotel before it closed said it was dangerous and unfit for purpose, with another saying it was “Fawlty Towers meets the Overlook Hotel from The Shining.”
The main building was built in 1872 as a gentleman’s residence but was turned into a hotel in 1900.
Following a growth in popularity in the 60s and 70s, flat roof extensions were added but their quality is said to be very poor and not in keeping with the main building.
The extensions to the former Best Western hotel, including the main entrance, could be demolished under the plans.
Planning documents say the renovation works could be done in a sympathetic manner, returning the building to the elegant structure it once was and preserving a local landmark.
The documents say the previous owners of the hotel had made significant losses running the business.
When the hotel was put up for sale in 2021 it did not meet the £700,000 guide price at auction but was sold afterwards.
No changes are proposed to the grounds — which include a tennis court and swimming point and used to feature a helipad — but will need a general tidy up, plans say, as it has been neglected for many years.
You can view the plans, 23/01771/FUL, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register. Comments can be submitted until November 17.
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