Westminster council has scuppered plans to convert the headquarters of one of Westminster’s oldest political clubs to offices.
In November, members of St Stephen’s Constitutional Club voted to convert its historic building in Queen Anne’s Gate to offices.
The change of use would have netted club members, including former prime minister Sir Edward Heath and shadow foreign secretary Michael Ancram, a share of a potential £16m windfall – a sum far larger than the building’s present value as a club or private residence.
Benjamin Disraeli was among the founders of the club in the 1880s but it has been starved of cash in recent years.
However the application to Westminster council has been withdrawn after the council said it had earmarked the area for residential development.
Christopher Beale, the club chairman, insisted members are still determined to sell the club to the highest bidder.
EGi News 31/05/02
