I was asked about this hotel by a friend that stayed there years ago, after I returned home.
All I could remember was the new owner had built across the soi, a new building that exceeded his permission to build, and was forced to pull that down and Howards.
To be frank I had not been asked before I left but remember a new building being demolished which probably was it.
What was Howards had ground floor shops and as I was not interested, took no further notice.
My friend was angry that I did not come back with answers. Maybe somebody can fill this in and suggest the next step for Howards.