Homeowners in Maidstone, Kent, say they are 'absolutely devastated' by plans to convert the former Grange Moor Hotel into a large house in multiple occupation (HMO). The proposal would create 42 co-living studio apartments, potentially housing up to 65 people.
Residents on surrounding roads claim the development would impact parking, infrastructure, and property prices. The deadline for comments passed on September 22 and attracted more than 300 objections. A decision on the plans will be made at a later date.
Residents' Concerns
Kate Broom, 51, bought her house in the area in May but said she and her partner would never have moved there if they had known about the plans. She said: 'We are absolutely devastated. This was our dream home. It is already stressful parking; the roads are really busy. We haven't been able to get a place at a GP surgery yet. This street can't cope. We definitely wouldn't have bought this if we knew.'
Jake King, 38, who lives with his partner and their two young children and grew up in Maidstone, said: 'Grange Moor has been there since I was a kid, so it has always been around. To see it repurposed is sad.'
Hotel History and New Plans
The three-star Grange Moor Hotel was refurbished last year and rebranded as the Apartell. However, it closed for good in December due to 'major financial viability issues', according to planning documents. Locals say it served as a community hub for dinners, business meetings, and overnight stays.
The new plans include communal kitchens, workspaces, a gym, a community living area, a laundry room, communal gardens, and private parking with EV charging.
Wider Impact on the Area
Jackie Farrington, 84, a former foster carer who has lived in the area for 45 years, said: 'I am worried about parking and crime. We don't know who is going to be in there. I think it will make the house value go down as well. Every house that goes up for sale, they seem to make into an HMO around here. It was a lovely road, but it has really changed.'
Yvonne Whitehead, 78, said she is 'absolutely horrified'. She added: 'It used to be a lovely hotel. I used to go there for nice dinners. My children got married there.' Whitehead claims it is a town-wide issue and says there are a significant number of HMOs in Maidstone. She added: 'We know the infrastructure is not good enough for the people in Kent as it is.'
Metro has contacted Kent County Council for comment.
