Former Newquay hotel issued with closure order over anti-social behaviour

A former hotel in Newquay has been issued with a closure order following reports of anti-social behaviour at the site.

Cornwall Council and Devon and Cornwall Police submitted a joint application in relation to the former Sutherland Hotel on Mount Wise.

The council said evidence presented to the court outlined multiple incidents and complaints linked to the property, including soiled clothing and faeces being thrown from windows, smashed glass falling onto pavements and neighbouring properties, and drug paraphernalia being found around the building.

Residents also reported being verbally abused and disturbed at night by noise coming from inside the former hotel. A fire was also reported on the top floor of the building.

Planning permission to demolish the hotel and replace it with an aparthotel was granted in August 2025.

Cornwall Council said a Community Protection Warning had previously been issued to the owner of the property, Blakesley Estates, in December 2025. The warning required the building to be secured and access prevented, but the authority says conditions were not complied with.

On 26 May 2026, Truro Magistrates’ Court granted a closure order requiring the premises to remain closed for three months.

Anyone entering the building without permission could face a fine, imprisonment, or both.

Councillor Thalia Marrington, Cornwall Council cabinet member responsible for Community Safety and Public Protection, said: “We have to put a stop to the appalling behaviour that’s been taking place at this site.

“I would like to thank our community safety team and the officers at Devon and Cornwall Police who have worked hard to secure this order to help protect local residents and the wider community.”

Inspector Steve Johnson of Devon and Cornwall Police said the issues surrounding the site had been ongoing for some time and had significantly affected local residents.

He said police would continue to patrol the area to ensure the closure order was being followed and warned breaches could result in arrest.