Plans to extend accomodation at Coast Road HMO building

The proposals relate to Mostyn Lodge, a Tudor-Gothic building dating back to the early 1850s.

Originally known as the Mostyn Arms Inn, the property later operated as a hotel before being converted into its current use as a managed and supervised house in multiple occupation (HMO) supporting local authority housing needs.

According to a Design and Access Statement prepared by JPH Architects Ltd, the building is currently in a poor state of repair and contains vacant areas that are not being fully utilised.

The applicant is seeking permission for internal refurbishment works, minor alterations and the construction of a small glazed link between parts of the building.

The plans aim to create six additional bedrooms within the existing building footprint, allowing the eventual removal of three temporary mobile bedroom units currently located on the site.

The development would also provide improved facilities for residents, staff and visitors, while creating dedicated staff accommodation and more efficient internal layouts.

Architects say the proposals focus on restoring and reusing vacant and semi-dilapidated sections of the property rather than extending the overall scale of development.

Planned changes include restoring the large arched timber gate on the eastern annexe, replacing windows with timber casement designs in keeping with the building's historic character, converting a former garage space and removing a later single-storey rear extension. A new glazed link would connect the main building with the annexe.

The statement says the works have been designed to preserve the building's heritage value while addressing the growing demand for accommodation. Additional income generated by the extra bed spaces is also expected to support the future maintenance of the historic property.

The scheme includes improvements to accessibility, with a new reception area proposed within the eastern wing, level access through much of the ground floor and a new accessible toilet. Existing vehicle access arrangements from the A548 would remain unchanged.

The application states that the proposals have been shaped by previous conservation feedback and are intended to comply with both Welsh heritage planning guidance and Flintshire's local development plan policies on listed buildings.

It argues that the refurbishment would secure the long-term future of the building while providing much-needed accommodation and wider community benefits.

Flintshire Council's planning officials have approved the application. This is subject to conditions, including the provision of parking and turning facilities.