The Sidholme Hotel in Elysian Fields Sidmouth has applied to convert a cottage in its grounds to apartments.

Document 24/1174/MFUL asks to change Cumberland Cottages use and its adjoining extensions Including 1987 front extension and guest house extension, from C1 Hotel to C3 Residential use; change of use of annexe apartments, currently classed as C1 Hotel rooms to C3 Holiday use; remove managers use restriction on a residential bungalow; Permission to split and sell all the above properties, plus residential staff cottage leasehold/commonhold.

The applicants state that these works would see some changes to the circulation with 'limited loss of historic fabric', and a change to the use of the site.

It adds that this 'creation of residential units and putting a Grade II* Listed Building back into active use.'

Sidholme was most recently in use as a hotel and is a Grade II* Listed former grand residence, constructed in 1826 (Historic England, 2024). 

When renovated, the cottage will include apartments and holiday accommodation, whilst retaining some commercial use of Sidholme, likely as a wedding venue. 

The applicant has spoken with Historic England which finished with a site meeting between the client team and Rhiannon Rhys, Inspector of Historic Buildings and Areas, Historic England. During this meeting the client discussed their outline proposals for subdivision of Sidholme, principally for Leasehold residential use, with a small part of the house to have a commercial use

People have shared their thoughts on the plans, which they seem impressed with. Eight people have commented on the planning portal. Five of which support, one object and one is neutral.

Plans will be reviewed by officers at East Devon District Council before a decision to approve to refuse it will be decided.

Comment or read the full plans on the East Devon District Council planning portal using the reference number in the second paragraph of this story.