Jessica Toale, MP for Bournemouth West, has written to the chief executive of Britannia Hotels, the owner of the Roundhouse Hotel, seeking clarity on its long-term plans for the site and raising community concerns about its potential to become an empty, neglected property in the heart of the town.
The Home Office recently confirmed that the Roundhouse will no longer house asylum seekers after this year, freeing up the building after more than a decade of use as accommodation for people awaiting a decision on their asylum applications.
Roundhouse hotel, Bournemouth (Image: NQ)
In the letter, Ms Toale said: “The Roundhouse Hotel is one of the most recognisable buildings in Bournemouth and is a landmark for people entering the town.
“For more than a decade it has been closed to paying guests and in use as accommodation for people awaiting a decision on their asylum applications.
“This has caused concern in the local community, particularly given its proximity to our further education college and other private residences.
“I have campaigned since before my election for its closure.
“I welcome that the Home Office has now confirmed the Roundhouse Hotel will cease being used as asylum accommodation before the end of the year.”
Despite welcoming the decision to close the hotel as asylum accommodation, Ms Toale said that this is only ‘half the job’ and the future of the building needs to be investigated.
She added: “As such a prominent site, people are worried about it falling into disrepair and being another empty building in our town.
“Many have come forward to share positive ideas about its use from a boutique hotel to artists’ studios, flexible office and retail space, and other forms of accommodation.”
In her letter to Alex Langsam, Ms Toale asked whether the company plans to reopen the Roundhouse as a hotel, sell the property, or explore alternative uses.
She also requested details on the timeline for decision-making and any necessary refurbishment work, as well as a commitment to keep the building secure and well-maintained if it remains vacant.
Ms Toale said: “I would welcome the chance to meet with you to discuss the above questions and your plans for this and your other properties in Bournemouth that remain under Home Office contract.
“I would also be happy to facilitate engagement with local residents and stakeholders.
“I look forward to your response and to working together to bring this important building back to life.”