STEPS to deliver a controversial business-class hotel in Basingstoke have progressed after planning application was submitted.

The application from US company Village Hotels has been submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for a 153-bedroom hotel in Basing View.

If permission is granted the hotel will offer residents and businesses meeting and events facilities, an all-day restaurant, Starbucks, pub, business club and leisure facilities. If granted, construction of the hotel is proposed to start in summer 2018.

Major ground levelling work to allow the council-owned land to be used as part of the transformation of Basing View is being funded as part of an investment grant of £7.5 million from Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership, which has been agreed in principle.

The planning application for these site preparation works, essential for the development of the hotel and the rejuvenation of the Basing View area, has been submitted by the council.

Cabinet member for property and development, Cllr John Izett said: “This is another important step in the regeneration of Basing View. Many employers, especially those on Basing View, have been encouraging the council to deliver a new business-class hotel in the centre of the town for their staff and clients. 

“I am delighted that we are moving closer to providing this new facility which is important to the future growth and prosperity of our borough. A good choice of modern hotels across the borough puts us in a strong position to compete with neighbouring towns including Reading and Guildford."

However, the proposal has not been welcomed by everyone, with some businesses and opposition councillors stating there are no demands for a business-class hotel in Basingstoke.

Head of property at Village Hotels Iain Stackhouse said: “Village Hotels is excited about the opportunity of operating in Basingstoke and continues to engage with all local stakeholders to make this possible.

“We pride ourselves on the highly popular leisure and lifestyle facilities the brand brings to all residents and businesses in the communities in which we operate, and the significant local employment and economic benefits they deliver.”