Croydon Council has granted planning permission for the first stage of a £30m project to restore the Selsdon Park Hotel.
The estate, on Addington Road, Selsdon, dates back over 1,000 years, with references to a manor at Selsdon recorded from the 9th century. Historic associations include King Henry VIII, Queen Elizabeth I and the Smith family, who shaped much of the estate’s character.
It was bought by AB Boutique Hotels earlier this year after standing vacant since 2023. Their vision is to transform the locally listed building and estate into a luxury hotel destination, creating over 150 full and part-time jobs whilst respecting and enhancing the site’s character. It will be run under the Elysium Collection Brand, together with five other hotels they own.
The approved scheme focuses on restoring windows, including stained glass and decorative leaded windows. This will preserve its historic features, enhance energy efficiency and help safeguard the future of the building.
The plans mark the start of a wider programme of works, which would include the refurbishment of the hotel, including the gym and tennis courts, and creating new spa and wellness facilities, padel courts, staff accommodation and vehicular and pedestrian access to the site. Improvements will also be made to the landscape and biodiversity across the 200 acres of historic parkland.
The applicant anticipates that the hotel and leisure facilities could reopen in summer 2027 for visitors and members of the public. The spa is likely to open towards the end of 2027.
The project supports Executive Mayor Jason Perry’s commitment to preserving the character of the borough and its historic buildings, whilst supporting local job opportunities and economic growth by creating a visitor attraction.
The applicant’s planning submission states that the proposals align with the Croydon Local Plan vision for Selsdon, which recognises the hotel as an important source of local employment and economic activity.
James Routledge of the Elysium Collection said: “The Elysium Collection would like to thank Croydon Council for working with our team to achieve this planning approval. We look forward to continuing engagement with them closely as our plans develop. Their practical approach to this complicated restoration project of an iconic hotel is much appreciated.”
“Selsdon Park Hotel is a wonderful local landmark, rich in local history and set in beautiful surroundings. I am delighted to see this £30m restoration project progressing. It is a significant investment in Selsdon that will protect the future of this historic estate, create new jobs, support local businesses and strengthen Croydon’s visitor economy. Seeing an iconic building restored and brought back into active use is good news for residents and for the borough as a whole.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
