Historic houses to be turned into student flats

A £4m scheme to refurbish two Grade II listed Georgian townhouses and convert them into student accommodation is to begin.

The project, at 52-53 Old Steine in Brighton, will transform "underused" office space into 33 bedrooms near to the seafront, architects said.

The site is within the Valley Gardens Conservation Area, one of the city's most historically and architecturally significant parts, typified by iconic regency architecture.

The scheme's architects, Able Partners, said it would see the site "restored to its original, residential purpose, while integrating a contemporary design".

Bill Webb, chief executive of Able Partners, said: "We're delighted to ensure that empty office space in the heart of Brighton is sensitively returned to residential purpose.

"We intend to preserve as much of the internal layout as possible, restoring historical features such as the staircases, joinery and decorative elements."

Prior to its conversion for office use, 52 Old Steine was a fashionable social hub and open green used by 18th Century fishermen.

It later became home to Lt Gen Sir Arthur Benjamin Clifton, a veteran of the Battle of Waterloo.

Construction is due to begin in the summer and it is hoped the buildings will be ready to house students in autumn 2026.

Planning permission was granted by Brighton & Hove City Council in July 2024.

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