PLANS have been submitted to convert an iconic Grade II listed seafront hotel in Teignmouth.

The proposals for the former Bay Hotel in Powderham Terrace include internal alterations to refurbish and remodel the existing premises into an aparthotel of seven apartments.

The 18-bed hotel has been closed since 2017 when it was closed down by the emergency services following several incidents including a fire and a ceiling collapse.

It was once owned by ex-barrister Shirley Bothroyd who at one time was dubbed the female Basil Fawlty.

The 64-year-old bought the prominent building in 2013 for £1.5million.

The plans have been submitted to Teignbridge Council for listed building consent.

Built in 1869 by the Earl of Devon, the building was awarded Grade II listed status as part of the wider terrace of Regency properties in 1972.

The terraces were built in the 19th Century to provide sea view holidays and hotel accommodation and elevated the town as a notable Georgian resort.

A statement to planners says: ‘The constraints of the site revolve around the properties Grade 2 Listing and location within Teignmouth Town Centre Conservation Area.

‘The opportunity involves resolving these issues by improving the existing internal layouts in a respectful and harmonious manner.

‘The application presents a scheme sympathetic to the existing building and its intrinsic value.

‘The proposed changes to the building have been designed to be minimal and maintain the important historical asset.’

The plans include retaining the existing facade and keeping any elements of ‘historical value’.

The statement continues: ‘In recent years the building has had minimal upkeep and due to this is falling into disrepair.

‘The building no longer matches up to the quality of its neighbouring terraces and would benefit from repair and refurbishment.’

Earlier this year, Ms Bothroyd was ordered to be disbarred by an independent disciplinary tribunal following charges of professional misconduct brought by the Bar Standards Board. 

The tribunal disbarred Ms Bothroyd on four charges of professional misconduct relating to several criminal convictions for a number of offences committed between 2017 and 2018, including threatening to damage property, common assault and assaulting a police officer.

The tribunal concluded her conduct of ‘repeated threats of harm and violence resulting in imprisonment and a Hospital Order’ was of sufficient severity for them to disbar her.