A PLAN to revitalise an ‘eyesore’ former hotel, which could create up to 25 jobs, has been deferred by Pembrokeshire Coast National Park planners despite a recommendation for refusal.

The application to demolish the derelict Old Roch Gate Motel and replace it with a 40 bedroom hotel and restaurant complex was made by Mr I Bowie of Humbergrange Ltd.

While accepting the principle of a new hotel, Park planning officers raised concerns about the 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, but the application was supported by Nolton and Roch Community Council.

Speaking at last Wednesday’s meeting of the Park’s Development Management Committee,, Nolton and Roch Community Council Vice Chairman David Smith said: “On entering the village the first sign the visitor has of our village is a ghastly derelict building with flaking paint, boarded up doors and broken windows.”

He added: “I don’t think this new development will detract anything from our village.”

Applicant Mr Bowie said a previous 2009 application, since lapsed, had been for “an ultra-modern building,” describing the current application as “a very traditional scheme”.

Llanrhian county councillor David Rees described the existing building as reminding him of “The Bates Motel”, adding: “The opportunity now to do something on the site is something we should grasp.”

However, he raised concerns about the design proposed.

St Ishmael county councillor Reg Owens backed the application: “There’s certainly a need for this sort of development in our county; this development will provide jobs for 25 people.”

Newport county councillor Paul Harris said: “Like all members I’m supporting a development that will replace a blot on the landscape. I feel, on balance, we’re very close to a solution but I feel I’m going to have to support our officers on this recommendation but I hope discussions can be opened to come to a solution.”

His recommendation for refusal was narrowly defeated, and was replaced by a proposal to defer for further design discussions, made by Dinas Cross county councillor Cllr Kilmister.

The application was deferred for further consultations on design and will be heard at the next meeting of the Park’s Development Management Committee on December 3.