PLANS to convert a hotel in Weaverham into a semi-detached dwelling have been approved.

Oaklands Hotel, on Millington Lane, has 14 bedrooms as well as a bar and function room.

The popular local venue was bought by David McGrogan approximately 13 years ago.

But despite the hotel still being open, Mr McGrogan has now been granted permission for the change of use by Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Planning permission was previously granted in August 2017 to transform the hotel into one dwelling, but this has now been revised to create two homes.

According to the applicant, the proposal involves a ‘straightforward’ change to the use of the existing buildings on the 1.2-hectare site.

Planning documents state that this can be achieved through only ‘minor internal alterations’, while no alterations are required to the external fabric or the appearance of the building.

The plot will be divided into two dwellings, with each having its own independent drive using the two existing access routes from Millington Lane.

Each dwelling will also have its own private rear garden.

Northwich Guardian:

Planning documents state: “The site is well planted with mature trees, so despite the amount of buildings and hard surfaces, the western two thirds still remain ‘green’.

“The two dwellings are unlikely to cause any disturbance to neighbours, which contrasts with the existing hotel use, where noise and activity generated by wedding receptions and functions has the potential to be heard over a wide area.

“The existing car park will accommodate 142 cars, but much of this hard surface will be returned to green space, removing most of the existing tarmac.”

No objections were received by Weaverham Parish Council, Weaverham Civic Trust or neighbours, who were notified of the application by letter.

One ward councillor objected to the development due to the hotel being a ‘much valued community asset’.

In approving the plans, planning officers concluded: “While there may be some loss of some facilities used by the local community, the loss is not considered to be significant.

“The proposals would not undermine the ability of residents to meet their day to day needs.

“The proposed development would not cause undue harm to neighbouring amenity or impact highway safety, nor is it considered inappropriate in Green Belt which would impact on openness.”