Plan to convert historic Bognor building into flats gets go-ahead

The latest listed building consent allows a former accommodation building behind the grade two listed Royal Norfolk Hotel to become seven flats.

The permission was given to Herongate Land and Developments to enable the one and two bedroom accommodation to bring new life to the empty structure.

Cllr Richard Evans (Bognor Marine) said: "This is a very good use of this redundant and partly derelict building."

Cllr Sylvia Olliver (Bersted) stated: "I know this is going to be a great improvement."

Permission to use the old building was first given by a planning inspector in 2005 after a planning inquiry.

Herongate's latest scheme contains amendments to the earlier proposal. The alterations include amendments to the window and porch design. Herongate's Tom Elliott said at the latest Arun District Council development control committee meeting the conversion would add to the charm and character of the area around the 19th century hotel.

It would also provide much-needed housing in the neighbourhood.

Only first class and appropriate materials, such as natural slate for the roofs and wooden doors and sash windows, would be used.

Kevin Swadling, a founder trustee of the Royal Norfolk Hotel's use as the base for the Christ for the Nations UK organisation, stated that he backed the scheme.

Bognor Regis Town Council objected to the scheme. Its members said the access from the flats on to West Street would add to the hazards of an already busy road. Arun District Council planning officer Keith Wheway said that matter had been considered by the inspector at the inquiry.

The new flats are part of a mews development for 13 one and two bedroom dwellings which has been given the go-ahead behind the hotel.