PLANS to convert a former residential care home in Newquay into flats have been submitted to planners.

A change of use planning application has been proposed to turn Ocean Hill Lodge in Trelawney Road into a 14-bedroom house of multiple occupancy.

The plans stated: “The proposal seeks to bring a currently underutilised building back into beneficial use, satisfying local demand and addressing local housing needs.

“The two-storey property was last used as a residential care home with 18 beds and communal living spaces. The building is in sound condition, and no material external changes are proposed.

“The existing building is a former residential care home. The proposed use is for a large HMO providing 14 bedrooms with shared facilities. The change of use will meet the demand for affordable and flexible accommodation for working professionals and others in the area.

“The proposal reduces the intensity of occupation from 18 to 14 occupants. Three rooms will be for single occupancy, the remaining 11 for double. Shared amenities will include multiple kitchens, bathrooms, and communal living areas, exceeding minimum HMO guidelines.

“The proposed conversion respects the existing building and surroundings, improves the quality and safety of accommodation, and meets a clear need in the area, aligning with local and national planning policy.

“The internal layout will be reconfigured to meet HMO standards and improve functionality and safety. The layout will provide three single-occupancy bedrooms, 11 double-occupancy bedrooms, adequate number of shared kitchens and bathrooms, communal living/dining spaces, laundry facilities, storage for bins and 12 bicycles and parking for six cars.

“The external layout remains unchanged aside from minor alterations to parking and additional waste storage. The physical scale of the building remains the same, other than the removal of a small extension to the rear to allow for more parking. No extensions or increases in height are proposed.

“The proposed conversion respects the existing building and surroundings, improves the quality and safety of accommodation, and meets a clear need in the area, aligning with local and national planning policy.”