Killiow House, a country estate situated in Cornwall, has submitted a request for permission to repurpose its holiday lodges into temporary residences for NHS workers during the winter months. The estate, contingent upon approval from Cornwall Council, aims to provide accommodation for up to 45 NHS staff members.
The proposal emerges as Killiow House grapples with financial challenges precipitated by the confluence of Covid-19 and an escalating cost of living crisis. The closure of its golf course due to these hardships has prompted the estate to explore alternative means of generating essential revenue.
Conveniently located within three miles of the Royal Cornwall Hospital at Treliske, Truro, Killiow House envisions converting its existing lodges to offer a supportive haven for healthcare professionals.
In the past, Killiow House received authorization to erect 20 lodges, predicated on the expectation that this development would significantly bolster the dwindling income of its ailing golf enterprise. The estate has further cited the encroachment of Airbnb-style short-term rentals in the region as a factor hampering the success of its golf business.
However, an imposition of conditions upon the approval stipulated that the business refrain from engaging in short-term winter lettings within the 10 lodges currently operational.
A statement supporting Killiow’s application elucidates, “The forthcoming winter season may necessitate the closure of all 10 lodges, rendering their annual income nonviable. We have been approached to dedicate our lodges exclusively for the use of temporary NHS staff accommodations during the upcoming winter periods and beyond.”
This proactive measure could potentially offer up to 30 double bedrooms, ensuring secure lodging for vital medical personnel while concurrently facilitating the upkeep of the estate’s infrastructure during the colder months.
The decision on the application remains pending, poised to shape the potential role of Killiow House in supporting healthcare workers during the challenging winter seasons ahead.
