Plans have been submitted to Gloucester City Council to convert the upper floors of the historic building at 28 King’s Square into a large house in multiple occupation (HMO) with 18 bedrooms. The site, dating back to around 1934, is notable for its classical architectural features and Portland stone facade, making it a recognised landmark at the eastern end of the Oxbode opposite Kings Quarter.
The proposed conversion would see the currently vacant first and second floors-previously office spaces-transformed into a single HMO. The first floor is planned to accommodate ten bedrooms, and the second floor eight. Each level would also include a communal kitchen and living area, with space set aside for drying clothes, according to the planning documents.
To enhance the living environment, rooftop external amenity areas accessible from both floors would be created. Additional facilities include a dedicated cycle store with 18 spaces at ground level and bin storage located in the rear yard. The development aims to retain as many of the existing internal walls and partitions as possible. Plans also include installing solar panels on the building’s south-west facing roof to improve energy efficiency, although no external lighting is to be added in the rear courtyard or amenity areas.
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While the building itself is unlisted, it sits in an area rich with listed buildings and scheduled monuments. Its prime location offers convenient access to Gloucester’s transport hub, including the new NCP car park at The Forum, and Gloucester’s bus and train stations, all within walking distance.
The application was validated by the council on 4 September and is currently open for public consultation, with residents invited to submit their comments by 2 October via the Gloucester City Council planning portal.
Previously put up for sale in 2025, the entire building-including the Post Office-was described by agents Bruton Knowles as “a unique opportunity to acquire a landmark building in Gloucester city centre.” The property was listed at over £650,000, noting that the upper floors had been vacant for some time and were in a state of some disrepair.
Throughout the development, the ground floor Post Office would remain operational, maintaining its role in the community.