Iconic Dorset seafront hotel left to rot as MP demands action over 'eyesore'

A once-glamorous seaside hotel has been branded an “absolute eyesore” as an MP calls for Government action to save the historic building from falling further into disrepair.

The Riviera Hotel, overlooking the seafront in Weymouth, Dorset, has stood empty since storm damage forced its closure in 2022. The Grade II-listed Art Deco landmark first welcomed holidaymakers in 1939 and went on to become a major part of the resort’s tourism scene, later operating as a Pontins.

But after years without guests, its deteriorating condition has prompted growing concern among residents and South Dorset MP Lloyd Hatton, who has urged ministers to help secure its future. Speaking in Parliament, Mr Hatton said the hotel’s Saudi Arabia-based owners had allowed it to fall into “woeful disrepair”.

He told ministers: “The Riviera Hotel is an iconic building overlooking Weymouth, but its current Saudi Arabia-based owners have let it fall into woeful disrepair. What was once a thriving hotel is now turning into an absolute eyesore. While Dorset Council is doing its utmost to convene a reasonable sale, we can and must do more. Will the Minister meet with us to explore every option, including compulsory purchase as a backstop, to bring this hotel back into local hands?”

Housing minister Matthew Pennycook agreed to meet Mr Hatton and confirmed local authorities have a range of powers available to help preserve designated heritage assets.

The hotel was built in 1936–37 at a cost of around £40,000, before opening for the summer holiday season in 1939. Its striking modernist design has earned praise from Historic England, which says it “epitomises the austere approach of the modernists in the immediate pre-war era” and reflects the designer’s awareness of contemporary architecture in Rome and elsewhere.

The property was sold to Hollybush Associates in 1999, with a £1million refurbishment completed by 2002. A decade later, it changed hands for £3.5million, when it was bought by Saudi Arabian hospitality group Diyafa. The hotel, owned by Bowleaze Limited and linked to the group, provided temporary accommodation for homeless people during the Covid pandemic in 2020–21.

It was put up for sale for £5.5million in 2020, but failed to attract a buyer and was withdrawn from the market the following year. In 2023, the building was added to the Twentieth Century Society’s Buildings at Risk Register because of concerns about its “decline and neglect”.

One local said: “Such a shame, you can see the lovely art deco style even though it has fallen into this state. It would be amazing if it could be restored.” Another said listed status was making things difficult, adding: “It’s a victim of listed building status - makes it too expensive and restrictive to do anything.”

The hotel’s owners have been approached for comment.