Hostel at 7 Dock Street

Location of site

I’ve previously written briefly about 7 Dock Street and its history as a continuation of the Red Ensign Club, and one its notable residents, the author, Joseph Conrad.

After becoming a hostel for the homeless, it appears to have a new lease of life, as a ‘hostel’ but this time it will provide ‘budget short-term accommodation for those visiting London’. [Update: thanks to anonymous for this link to the architects which describe the project as a youth hostel].

Planning application and documents here. 

Current entrance

Part of this will be a small extension to the northern end of the building where there is currently vehicular access to what appears to be the bin storage area and small car park. Construction of the extension will create an enclosed court yard.

There’s no proposed design changes to the layout of the existing building, which appears to largely consist of rooms of various sizes with ensuite toilets and showers. Several of the rooms appear to have multiple single beds but it’s not clear if this is going to be aiming for the backpacker /multiple occupancy model or whether it is aimed at group bookings.

Renewing and tidying up the building can be but a good thing, and it may bring more custom to the businesses on Cable Street, Lehman Street and the Pepper Pot Pub on Dock Street.

Courtyard area

Dock Street elevation

Existing layout of an upper floor

Visualisation of Dock St entrance

New extension (room on the left)

Visualisation