Acorn unveils ambitious plans for formerWoolacombe hotel

Acorn Property Group has submitted plans to transform the site of the former Royal Hotel in Woolacombe, North Devon, into a mixed-use development, including 64 new homes plus commercial space.

The site enjoys a prominent position in the town and has been vacant ever since its closure in 2018. It was purchased by Acorn in March 2022 and the company intends to commence construction as soon as planning permission is granted, which is anticipated to be in early 2025.

“The former Royal Hotel is Woolacombe’s only remaining brownfield site and, for too long, has been a blight on the otherwise stunning beauty of the area,” said Duncan Powell, Group Planning Director at Acorn Blue.

“We’ve sought the views of local people and the town council and welcome their support for our proposals to demolish this unsightly building and bring much-needed new homes and commercial space. We’ll be using local suppliers and consultants throughout the construction process wherever possible.”

Taking into consideration feedback from the South West Design Review Panel, Acorn’s plans include a significant reduction of the existing building’s dominant linear form, instead creating two detached villas on the frontage. This will reflect the character of the village Conservation Area further down Beach Road.

Duncan added: “Recently winning the Sunday Times’ Beach of the Year Award, Woolacombe’s three-mile sandy beach is regarded as one of the finest in the UK. Our proposals make the best use of extensive seaward views from all apartments and houses, while making use of the south-facing aspect to harness energy from solar panels.”

Taking a fabric first approach, the homes will target an EPC A rating, with further sustainable features including ground source heat pumps in apartments and air source heat pumps in houses, PV panels, triple glazed windows and wastewater recovery for showers and baths. Carbon reduction measures will be incorporated throughout the build.

For more information or to register your interest visit: www.acornpropertygroup.org.