Plans to convert a care hostel into an aparthotel at 13 Soho Road in Birmingham are set to be approved despite objections from the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, and West Midlands Police.
The proposed aparthotel would feature six bedrooms, a reception/lounge area, a gym, and bathroom facilities. An aparthotel combines the space of a residential apartment with hotel-style services. This development aims to bring a currently vacant listed building back into active and viable use.
However, the project has drawn dozens of objections, including from Birmingham Ladywood MP and Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. She has expressed concerns raised by local residents about the potential over-intensification of occupants and safeguarding risks due to the site’s proximity to nurseries and primary schools.
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Responding to these concerns, a council officer’s report noted that the number of bedrooms had been reduced from ten to six to address fears of intensive use. The report confirmed that the proposed aparthotel complies with local planning policies. Regarding safeguarding, the officer highlighted that the site was previously used as a care hostel, which similarly involved people staying for varying durations.
West Midlands Police also raised concerns, criticising the initial lack of details on managing the premises to prevent crime and disorder. In reply, the applicant stated that the aparthotel would be operated by a specialist management company responsible for daily operations, with a comprehensive management plan subject to planning conditions.
According to the council report, reception hours would be from 8am to 8pm, with a remote 24-hour concierge service available outside of these times. Guests would be required to provide photo identification prior to arrival, with check-in managed via a secure keyless entry system. Check-out would be handled remotely, and access codes would expire at the end of each stay. The aparthotel would not accept walk-ins. Additionally, CCTV and external lighting would be installed to enhance security.
While further comments from West Midlands Police are awaited, the council officer concluded that the proposal should provide a secure aparthotel.
Subject to certain conditions, the planning officer has recommended approval of the development. The proposal will be considered by Birmingham Council’s planning committee on Thursday, 10 September.