A planning application has been submitted to Hull City Council to convert the former Portland Hotel on Paragon Street into a 122-bed house in multiple occupation (HMO). The proposal, put forward by Knight Wood Portfolio Limited, aims to breathe new life into the building, which has stood vacant since its closure in 2012. The Portland Hotel, once Hull’s first AA four-star hotel, has had a controversial history, including failed attempts at student accommodation and even being used as a cannabis factory. The owners have emphasized in their planning documents that they are not associated with any of the building’s previous issues and are committed to providing well-designed, comfortable living spaces.

The design plans detail that the HMO will span the building’s first to sixth floors, with a specific room distribution: 13 rooms on the first floor, 29 on the second, and 20 rooms on each of the remaining four floors. Each floor will feature multiple generous kitchen facilities, communal areas, and laundry rooms, with an approximate ratio of one washing machine per five residents. Every bedroom will also include a 'private kitchenette and en-suite bathroom', catering to tenants who prefer more privacy while still benefiting from shared amenities. Communal facilities will include a gym, cinema room, and co-working spaces, aiming to foster a sense of community among residents.

The application also addresses the need for significant upgrades to the building’s exterior, which has become outdated over the years. Proposed improvements include refurbishing the distinctive mosaic-tiled façade at the lower levels and installing new windows on the upper floors, enhancing both the building’s appearance and energy efficiency. The development aims to transform the neglected site into a modern and attractive residential option in Hull’s city centre.

If approved, the project would contribute to Hull’s ongoing efforts to meet local housing demand and regenerate unused city centre properties. The application is now under review by Hull City Council, with further updates expected as the planning process continues.