Plans to turn a former pub into a hotel despite concerns over the use of the building, car parking, privacy and noise have been recommended by Uttlesford District Council.
The old site of the Kings Head pub, in North Street, Great Dunmow, would be revamped and extended, and parking space provided for the nine-bedroom accommodation.
Dunmow Town Council had opposed the idea as it was anxious for the architectural and internal features of the Grade II listed building to remain.
It saw the proposed car park as an overdevelopment. Clive Smith, chairman of the town council's planning committee, said: "We want to keep it as a pub and parking provisions are inadequate for what is being proposed.
"We don't want to lose one of our lovely old pubs."
Other general concerns raised during representations over an earlier plan concerned residents' privacy in their homes, which may be seen from the hotel windows, and a possible increase in noise pollution.
However, a district council report said that the application was supported by the Dunmow Society, which argued that the hotel would still act like a pub, serving food and drink at the hotel restaurant and bar.
The recommendation for the application, which will be discussed on Monday, comes with several working conditions.
The district council has asked that the character of the building is not changed. Clay plain tiles should be used, walls should be rendered smoothly and no historic timber should be cut.
Published Friday August 6, 2004
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