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UK: Real estate company Jastar Capital has submitted a proposal to redevelop the Grade I-listed Custom House in the City of London into a luxury hotel.
The property would offer 179 guest rooms as well as a spa, a restaurant, a café, and event spaces.
Located on the north bank of the River Thames, the landmark building dates back to the early 19th century and once served as the headquarters for HMRC, which vacated the premises in 2021.
Jastar Capital, which acquired the site in 2023, aims to revitalise the property into a heritage-led hospitality destination. The plans have been developed in collaboration with Orms and Richard Griffiths Architects, with planning consultancy from Montagu Evans.
If approved, the redevelopment would restore architectural elements of the building including interior detailing by architect Robert Smirke. Proposals include reinstating period-appropriate features such as window awnings and upgrading access to key heritage areas.
Jay Matharu, director at Jastar Capital, said: “As long-term custodians, we are thrilled to put forward our plans to revitalise Custom House with welcoming community spaces, a heritage-focused hotel, elegant event spaces, exceptional dining experiences, a dedicated spa, and a dynamic quayside.”
Kate Falconer Hall, partner at Montagu Evans said: “The proposals will open up the most historically important parts of the Custom House, sensitively upgrading them for access whilst undertaking beneficial enhancements to the building’s fabric.”
However, heritage groups including the Georgian Group and SAVE Britain’s Heritage have voiced concerns about the impact on the historic fabric of the building. A previous redevelopment attempt was rejected in 2022.
