Backpackers could lose hostel

BACKPACKERS could have one less place to stay in Swanage if plans to change the use of a town centre hostel are approved.

An application has been submitted to Dorset Council to return the use of 45 High Street to residential.

Currently, use is split between a hostel at the rear of the building, known as The Auberge, and a four- or fivebedroom home at the front, occupied by the owner.

The application said it was now intended ‘to return the building to full residential use’.

It said: “The site is located within the commercial area of the High Street, Swanage, which is in the Swanage Conservation Area or ‘Old Town’.

“The site frontage sits on the high street and the building is accessible through a covered porch area set back from the pavement.

“The building also has a rear entrance and parking.

“The site backs onto Hardy Close which houses a collection of other residential homes and flats.

“The property of 45 High Street is Grade C listed as part of the street frontage and other buildings.

“An architectural detail, on the front façade, suggests that the building was originally built in 1898.

“At that time, historical records and discussions with the owner suggest the building was a dwelling/residence with servants’ accommodation to the rear, within the section of the building which currently serves as a backpackers’ hostel.

“The main part of the building bordering onto the High Street is currently a four-/ five-bedroom dwelling occupied by the owner.”

The hostel is made up of two rooms/dormitories which house bunk beds for a maximum of 10 guests.

A large kitchen/diner area is on the ground floor, with toilets and showers in the basement area, to the rear of the building. There is a private parking area for two vehicles at the rear of the building.

For more details, and to comment on the plan, log on to www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk and search for application reference P/FUL/2023/03385.