Homes plans will kill my business’

A WISBECH hotel owner fears he will lose his business if extensive plans to convert neighbouring buildings into homes are given the go ahead.

Jonathan Davies, of the Rose and Crown Hotel, claims the project submitted to Fenland planners for Anchor Chambers, Nene Quay would lead to the hotel's closure.

"What these developers want to do is absolutely ridiculous," he said. "Future complaints by the residents will kill functions in the Trumpet Hall, and jeopardise my license. They wouldn't stand to be subjected to disco noise from the function room.

"If this goes ahead, I will have no choice but to convert the hotel into a residential property myself - and that would mean Wisbech losing much needed hotel accommodation."

Mr and Mrs C Plumb want to convert part of Anchor Chambers from a home and office into three two-bedroom townhouses. It is proposed to change the ground floor into office accommodation.

They also plan to demolish a warehouse behind the property and build two two-bedroomed semi detached houses.

As there are so many objections to the application, it is due before councillors at Wednesday's planning committee meeting at Fenland Hall.

Fenland officials have recommended that councillors grant the proposal subject to various conditions, which include sound proofing the building.

Mr Davies, who runs the hotel with his partner Jacqueline Noot, added: "Just a brick wall separates the function room from the Anchor Chambers."

A report to councillors says: "It is considered that this proposal represents an efficient use of vacant space within an important building on the banks of the River Nene. The proposal will also result in the demolition of an unsightly, inappropriate building with the setting of a listed building and within the Conservation Area.