Historic Ex-Government Office in Central London Set for Major Hotel Transformation
Plans have been submitted to convert a historic Grade II-listed building in Central London, previously occupied by a Government department, into a substantial 652-bedroom hotel. The proposal for Noble House at 17 Smith Square includes comprehensive redevelopment to create guest accommodation, a ground-level restaurant and bar/cafe, and basement workspaces.
Developer's Vision and Building Challenges
Property owner Criterion Capital, which specializes in converting abandoned Central London offices into hospitality venues, has proposed an L-shaped extension with a green roof alongside extensive internal refurbishment. The nine-storey building could accommodate up to 1,332 guests simultaneously if approved.
Westminster City Council documents reveal the building has struggled with commercial viability as office space. An independent surveyor concluded there was "no reasonable prospect" of leasing the property for traditional office use, citing deep floor plans and poor daylighting as significant obstacles to modern workspace requirements.
Community Opposition and Traffic Concerns
The planning application has generated substantial local resistance, receiving 145 formal objections without any letters of support from neighboring property owners and occupants. Primary concerns center on potential disruption to the area's quiet character and inadequate infrastructure.
Many objectors specifically highlighted that the Millbank entrance appears insufficient to handle hundreds of hotel guests, raising questions about traffic management and pedestrian safety in the historically tranquil neighborhood surrounding Smith Square.
Council Assessment and Alternative Proposals
While acknowledging Millbank might not represent an "optimal location" for such a large hotel operation, Westminster City Council preliminary assessments suggest the development could proceed "without causing unacceptable impacts on the character of the area."
Some objectors advocated for residential conversion instead, but council officials confirmed they explored this possibility with Criterion Capital and found no policy requirement mandating residential use for the property.
Support and Infrastructure Considerations
The proposal has received backing from local amenity societies and Historic England, recognizing the adaptive reuse of the historic structure. However, Thames Water has raised significant infrastructure concerns, noting the existing water network cannot support the hotel's projected demand.
The utility company has requested specific conditions prohibiting hotel occupation until all necessary water network upgrades are completed and implementing temporary restrictions on piling construction techniques to protect underground infrastructure during foundation work.
Building History and Decision Timeline
Noble House previously served as headquarters for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) before becoming vacant in May 2024. The building remained unsuccessfully marketed as office space for twelve months prior to the hotel proposal.
One objector who attempted to lease office space in the building claimed Criterion Capital did not make genuine efforts to attract commercial tenants or adapt the property for office use. Westminster City Council will conduct its formal review of the application on Tuesday, February 24, determining the future of this historic London landmark.
