Plans for Ellesmere hotel, marina and 250 homes approved

Outline plans for a hotel, restaurant, caravan plots, holiday cabins, marina and the homes off Canal Way in Ellesmere have been given the green light by planning officers.

It is estimated the new homes will bring 750 residents to the town, while caravans and cabins, plus the 80-bed hotel, would accommodate nearly 500 people when fully occupied.

Council officials have welcomed the plans by Burbury Investments Ltd, saying the development would be a huge boost for the area.

Councillor Ann Hartley, chairman of the town's chamber of trade and Shropshire councillor for Ellesmere, said it was great news to receive just before Christmas.

She said: "It is fabulous news."I have been on the council for 20 years and the idea to re-develop that area has been talked about since then.

"This is exactly what the town needs and is a vital development. It is very exciting and I am thrilled.

"The chamber of trade has been supporting this development from the start.

"It is important we increase the amount of places for people to stay overnight in the town. This is a really good Christmas present and I hope it starts soon.

"I am glad there are a lot of planning conditions as it needs to be done tastefully and appropriate for the town.

"We now need to get the old warehouse sorted at the head of the wharf.

"That has been earmarked to be turned into a wine bar at the water's edge, which would be fantastic. It is currently a derelict unstable building."

The plans were originally submitted in 2014 and came under fire from heritage experts who feared the development could have a "serious impact" on Ellesmere Yard, home to 19th century grade II listed buildings.

But after a number of comments and objections, planners had another look at the project and scaled back plans for a hotel and spa.

A large area of landscaped space opposite the canalside buildings was introduced to act as a buffer to the proposed development, while plans for tennis courts were dropped and the number of parking spaces cut.

The hotel was reduced from 120 beds to 80 and the shape and placing of the building was changed.

Councillor Ian Ward, mayor of Ellesmere, added: "It is a real positive for Ellesmere economically and for business in the town, and it will help contribute to the growing town we have.

"It is really good news and strengthens our commitment to that side of the town for development. It is also reassuring there are plenty of conditions and it looks well thought-out, which is necessary."

Before building work starts an application for full planning permission, including details of the layout and scale of the buildings, will need to be submitted to Shropshire Council for approval.