A PLAN to convert a former bed and breakfast into a 21-resident HMO (house in multiple occupation) has been rejected by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

The application to convert the 14-bedroom Fernbank Hotel in Fairfields Road was rejected because of lack of parking provision and the pressure it would have on street parking.

Fernbank Hotel used to be a family-run business for many years. It was put up for sale last year for offers in excess of £750,000.

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The planning application was for change of use from C1 (hotel) to 'sui generis' for a 21-resident HMO and demolition of existing garage.

Planning officers had recommended that the application be approved.

The report said there would be changes to the rear of the site.

It said: “The existing garage structure would be demolished, and the area changed to vehicular parking spaces. Fourteen vehicular parking spaces would be formed at the site. A refuse storage enclosure and long-term cycle storage outbuilding would also be proposed on site as well as the provision for four short stay cycles.”

At a development control committee meeting, Cllr Ronald Hussey said the application was for a 50 per cent increase in the number of bedrooms.

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Cllr Hussey said: “I just think that the increase of bedrooms by seven to 21 is aggravating the situation of parking.

“It can have an adverse impact on the area, contrary to what the report says, because of the demand for parking in that area. On those grounds, I ask that this application should be refused.”

Twelve councillors voted in favour of a motion to refuse the plan, while one councillor voted against.