Proposals to demolish Weston-super-Mare’s former Lynton House Hotel and use the site for 40 flats have been dismissed by a planning inspector.

Weston Mercury: A picture of the fire at the Lynton House Hotel taken by Richard Heiron.A picture of the fire at the Lynton House Hotel taken by Richard Heiron. (Image: Archant)

Refresh Living No.4 wanted permission to demolish the derelict hotel, in Madeira Road, and build flats instead.

North Somerset Council rejected the plans initially, saying it would be an over-development of the site, and would lead to ‘oppressive living conditions’ for neighbours due to limited light.

It also said the proposals were not in-keeping with the rest of the street, which is in a conservation area meaning it is of historic interest.

MORE: Developer appeals Lynton House decision.

Planning inspector Rory Cridland did not agree with the council the flats would lead to detrimental living conditions – but nonetheless dismissed the application because it would be ‘harmful’ to the street scene and character of the conservation area.

He said: “I have found the proposal would not be detrimental to the living conditions of future or neighbouring occupiers and would comply with the council’s policy on accessible housing.

“Nevertheless, I have also found it would be harmful to the Madeira Road street scene as well as the character and appearance of the conservation area.”

Refresh Living argued the build should go ahead because the council does not have a five-year housing supply.

Mr Cridland said, however, the lack of housing supply does not outweigh the requirement for a development to fit in with the street scene.

He said the ‘substantial harm’ to the heritage assets would not outweigh the public benefits of more homes.

He added: “Although the council accepts, in view of their present condition and structural integrity, the demolition of the villas is the only realistic option for the redevelopment of the site, the plans indicate the replacement building would be of a modern, contemporary design, with few features which draw on the characteristic detailing of the surrounding historic buildings.

“It would appear in stark contrast to the more ornate and detailed facades of the neighbouring villas and would significantly alter the character and appearance of Madeira Road.”

The Lynton Hotel site has suffered from a number of fires, the most recent of which was in January this year.