A bed and breakfast that was seized following a major tax investigation could become one of Bath’s biggest party houses.
The former Roman City Guest House in Raby Place which was seized in 2019 | Photo: NCA
Bath Hot Houses has submitted plans to turn the grade II-listed Roman City Guest House in Raby Place into a commercial holiday let for up to 25 people.
Operator Bath Luxury Rentals has already listed the six-bedroom Georgian property as the Steam House, offering weeknight prices from £99, although the website says refurbishment is still taking place.
The planning application insists that 25 is the maximum number of guests and says the firm could deduct £500 from their deposit if they receive a noise complaint under its good neighbourhood policy.
It says there will be no additional noise or disturbance for neighbours and no additional impact on the roads compared to the B&B.
The townhouse was part of an £8.1million property portfolio owned by Shane Davies, his wife Rihanna, mother Sheila and sister Tracey that was seized in 2019 after the National Crime Agency found it had been derived from the proceeds of unlawful conduct.
The investigation found that the property was likely bought as a result of mortgage fraud and the sale of controlled drugs.
The NCA website says: “Where assets have been used to commit crime – for example a car used to smuggle drugs – assets will usually be confiscated as part of the criminal investigation.
“These assets will typically be auctioned and the proceeds used to compensate victims or returned to the public purse.”
Bath Hot Houses’ application says the current owners extensively refurbished and repaired the building but the business is no longer viable due to changes in tourism. It was occupied by squatters last Christmas.
The plans will be considered by Bath and North East Somerset Council.
Stephen Sumner, Local Democracy Reporter
