Previously-rejected underground ‘pod’ hotel given planning permission

Developer Criterion Capital proposes to convert the existing underground car park, underneath the St Giles Hotel on Great Russell Street, into an underground ‘pod’ hotel aimed at business travellers.

The Camden Council planning committee had previously rejected the scheme over concerns about poor air quality, as the plans show the bedrooms would have no windows or direct access to fresh air. The impact of extra visitors to the area on neighbouring residents was also cited as a concern.

However, local newspaper Fitzrovia News has this week​ reported that planning inspector David Prentis has now granted permission for the plans to continue, saying that air quality concerns could be alleviated through planning conditions and a S106 legal agreement, which would put in place measures to mitigate air pollution.

It was also found that the hotel would not be aimed at large groups of tourist travellers, and so would be unlikely to impact the noise or peace of the local area and residents with ‘coach-loads’ of traffic.  

Permission does not mean the hotel will automatically be built.

The new decision has attracted much criticism, with Councillors having previously described the plans as creating “a minus five-star hotel” that “would reflect badly on London”, in a “community [already] under stress” from noise and traffic.

The Bloomsbury Association, which claims to represent local residents, businesses and landowners and is said to have the support of a group of cross-party politicians, said it was disappointed by the permission and would be appealing. The decision on the appeal is set for 4 December.