A former police station in Belgravia is set to become a hotel with 255 rooms after Westminster City Council approved an increase from the originally consented 206-bed scheme. The site, Belgravia Police Station, has been vacant since 2022 following a reorganisation of the Metropolitan Police Service.
Approved changes and additional rooms
The revised plans, approved by the council's sub-committee, add 49 extra beds without any external changes or increase to the building's dimensions. The modifications include slightly smaller food and beverage amenities and expanded wellness facilities.
Lorna McMahon, representing residents of Fountain Court, told the committee that the additional hotel rooms would exacerbate existing water supply problems. “The existing water infrastructure is already failing the residents of Fountain Court. For around the last two years, residents of Fountain Court have experienced serious persistent problems with the Thames Water supply to our kitchens,” she said. “During the day, the pressure is frequently extremely low. Most concerning, every night from 12am to 1am until 7am or 8am there is no cold mains water from the kitchen tap.”
Local councillor raises concerns
Councillor Elizabeth Hitchcock, representing Knightsbridge ward, questioned the impact of the increased capacity. “It is too late to question whether a sizable hotel in this largely residential area will have a negative effect on residents, as there is already a scheme in place. But the question is, would an additional 49 rooms on top of the 206 consented rooms tip the balance too far?” she said.
The applicant, Aendre, agreed to establish a community liaison group to communicate with residents about the development. A condition was also imposed requiring the applicant to ensure the development does not affect water pressure in the area before construction begins.
Applicant's response
Alex Barman-Lyons, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said: “We have engaged with local residents and community stakeholders throughout this process and we will maintain an open and constructive dialogue with the community through construction and operation.” He added: “The site has been vacant since 2022. These proposals will bring it back to active use, creating local jobs, welcoming businesses to Westminster and contributing to the local economy.”
