A proposal to convert a student residence in Bognor into a house in multiple occupation housing 18 occupants has been lodged with Arun District Council.

The site at 1 Highfield Road functioned as a public house before being transformed into accommodation for students.

Consent was awarded in 2022 for an 18-bedroom student dwelling, with occupancy commencing in 2023.

An arrangement existed with the University of Chichester, with residents occupying the property until the conclusion of the academic year in 2025 when the tenancy agreement expired.

Neither interior nor exterior construction activities are contemplated, and the shared facilities, sleeping quarters and external appearance would continue unchanged.

The planning documentation indicates that the 2022 consent did not impose limitations restricting occupancy exclusively to students.

It also notes that the local authority has already indicated that fresh planning consent is not required.

Instead, the submission seeks a Certificate of Lawfulness for a Proposed Use, which would offer official confirmation regarding the legality of the proposed multiple occupation arrangement.

A verdict from the council is anticipated by October 16.