Southsea seafront hotel could become 23-person HMO after previous refusal
Fresh plans propose converting the Q8 Boutique Hotel after an earlier application was refused
Plans have been submitted to turn a Southsea seafront hotel into a 23-person HMO, following a refusal earlier this year.
Plans have been submitted to convert the Q8 Boutique Hotel on Clarence Parade in Southsea into a house in multiple occupation (HMO) for up to 23 people.
The planning application, submitted to Portsmouth City Council, concerns the four-star boutique hotel at 38 Clarence Parade.
If approved, the proposals would convert the hotel into a 16-bedroom HMO comprising nine single rooms and seven double rooms, alongside communal facilities.
The plans do not include an extension or any increase in the building’s footprint.
The proposed communal areas include a 15sqm ground-floor space and a 13.5sqm kitchen and dining room on the second floor. Both spaces would have cooking facilities.
The hotel, which has operated since 2018, has recorded varying occupancy levels in recent years. Figures show occupancy stood at 44 per cent in August 2024, falling to 35 per cent in August 2025. In April 2025, occupancy was recorded at 14 per cent.
The latest application follows an earlier proposal submitted in June this year, which was refused on the grounds of inadequate communal facilities, insufficient cycle parking and concerns over flood risk.
The Q8 Boutique Hotel currently offers 17 bedrooms, accommodating up to 34 guests.
Located opposite Southsea Common, Clarence Parade is a prominent seafront location historically associated with grand hotels and residences.
No residents or members of the public have commented on the latest plans.
The application can be viewed on Portsmouth City Council’s planning portal under reference 26/01160/FUL.