A landmark Blackheath hotel with a history spanning several decades could be transformed into specialist accommodation for elderly residents under new plans submitted to the local authority.
Detailed Proposals for a Historic Site
Elysian Blackheath LP has formally applied to Lewisham Council, seeking permission to convert the 175-room Clarendon Hotel into housing for 77 older people. The application, which also requests listed building consent, was officially lodged on September 19 and is currently awaiting a decision.
The hotel is situated at 8 to 16 Montpelier Row, at the crest of Blackheath Village. It forms part of a row of Georgian terraces, all designated as Grade II listed. These terraces were originally constructed in the late 18th century for city merchants and seafarers, according to Visit Greenwich. The buildings were gradually adapted for hotel use from the mid-20th century onwards.
A New Chapter with Modern Facilities
The ambitious proposals involve a comprehensive restoration of the building to create modern older persons' accommodation. The plans include a range of amenities such as a gym, health and wellbeing facilities, and a restaurant that would also be open to the public.
As part of the development, a section of the existing site would be demolished to make way for a new extension at the rear. This extension would contain blocks ranging from two to four-and-a-half storeys in height, connected by glazed links.
Addressing a Critical Borough Need
The development has been positioned as a direct response to a pressing local issue. The proposals are described as making a positive contribution "to an identified housing need in the borough".
It is anticipated that this specialist accommodation will help to lower the burden on the NHS and free up what is currently "underutilised" family housing in Lewisham. The project represents a significant opportunity to regenerate what is described as a "dated and declining facility", bringing substantial regeneration benefits to the area while supporting the growing need for older person's accommodation.
