More than 300 objections have been filed against plans to convert the former Grange Moor Hotel and wedding venue in Maidstone, Kent, into a 42-unit co-living development that could accommodate around 65 people.
Residents have raised concerns over parking, pressure on local infrastructure, the scale of the proposed development and its potential impact on the character of the neighbourhood. The consultation closed on September 22, with a planning decision expected at a later date.
The former three-star Grange Moor Hotel was refurbished and rebranded as Apartell in January last year before closing permanently in December. Planning documents cited major financial viability issues behind the closure.
The proposed redevelopment includes 42 studio apartments along with communal kitchens, workspaces, a gym, community living areas, laundry facilities and communal gardens. The plans also provide private parking spaces with electric vehicle charging facilities.
Residents have also expressed concerns about the growing number of HMO and co-living developments in Maidstone. However, speculation that the proposed accommodation could eventually house asylum seekers has not been confirmed.
The planning application remains under consideration. A final decision on the proposed conversion of the former hotel has not yet been made.
