AMMENDED plans to revitalise an ‘eyesore’ former hotel, which could create up to 25 jobs, are recommended for approval at a national park planning meeting next week.

The application to demolish the derelict Old Roch Gate Motel and replace it with a 40 bedroom hotel and restaurant complex, made by Mr I Bowie of Humbergrange Ltd, was previously recommended for refusal at the October meeting of the Park’s Development Management Committee.

While accepting the principle of a new hotel, Park planning officers raised concerns about the previous proposed design and appearance of the complex in a report for members.

It was described as “visually insensitive, incongruous and unsympathetic”.

Two letters of objection had been received to the previous application, but it was supported by Nolton and Roch Community Council.

The application was deferred at the October meeting for further consultations on design, following a proposal by Dinas Cross county councillor Bob Kilmister.

Plans for the derelict site, which has previously been compared to the Bates Motel, have now been amended to a more traditional.

Draft plans, recommended for approval, include traditionally formed windows replacing larger glazed openings, and a false roof above a flat roof on the entrance lobby to give the impression of a traditional roof on the building.

The report for planners states previous concerns have now been addressed.

“These amendments, although relatively small, have the result of dramatically changing the form and character of the scheme. The outward impression of the buildings is now one of a traditional form through the imposition of a simple window formation which is supplemented by timber glazed links.”

It concludes: “The amended scheme is considered to result in an acceptable design approach to this important site on the boundary of the national park. The scheme will provide for a new hotel to replace what is considered to be an unattractive arrangement of buildings.”

It is recommended the application be delegated to officers to grant planning subject to finalisation of amended drawings of the new plans.

The application will be heard at the next meeting of the Park’s Development Management Committee next Wednesday, December 3.