Criterion Capita’s LDN just got the thumbs-down from Camden council – so no underground pod hotel for London
London's first-ever underground pod hotel has been turned down by Camden council.
The Evening Standard reported that at a planning meeting last night, councillors said the LDN hotel, which would be on the fourth and fifth basement levels underneath a commercial block on Great Russell Street, will have a "minus five stars" rating thanks to its lack of windows.
"We need to ensure it's safe staying in five storeys underground in a part of London with some of the worst air quality in Europe," councillor Adam Harrison said.
In its planning application, Criterion said the hotel, which is currently a public car park, would "fill a gap in the market for simple, 'essential service' with eco-friendly hotel accommodation. It will also create 24 jobs.
"The hotel is a design-led contemporary experience offering value for money and always exceeding guest expectations," it said.
The hotel would include 166 guest bedrooms, plus a ground floor concierge desk and street-level bike parking.