PLANS to convert Knutsford’s former sessions house into a hotel have been approved by Cheshire East Councillors.

The Toft Road site was bought and earmarked for conversion into the ‘Court House Hotel’ by Flat Cap Hotels in 2016, and will now be transformed to provide 42 hotel rooms and a restaurant and bar.

A full planning application, submitted in August 2016, has been hotly contested by Knutsford Town Council, which did not agree with the extension materials or design.

Despite a strong objection from town councillors, the application was recommended for approval by Cheshire East Council planning officers with an overwhelming majority of 11 to one at the Northern Planning committee on Wednesday, January 11.

Cllr Tony Dean, Cheshire East Councillor representing the Knutsford ward, held a largely different view from the majority of his peers at the town council.

Speaking on Wednesday morning, he said: “This is a massively important building and it needs bringing back into use. It has been empty and deteriorating for far too long.

“I’m not sure if any potential design would find favour. The design materials do not offend my eye.”

Despite previously comparing the building to a ‘Premier Inn’, Knutsford ward representative Cllr Stewart Gardiner took a U-turn during the committee meeting, giving his approval to the plans.

Cllr Gardiner added: “The issue was that the drawings, when they were reproduced on the screen, you couldn’t see any of the detail. I am very thankful that we were able to be provided with proper drawings which show the extent to which the architect had gone to.

“I believe that the applicants have been very understanding in the way they have responded to the town council.”

One of the main concerns raised by Cllr Hilda Gaddum in the meeting was the lack of parking. The 42 room hotel will provide 33 spaces on completion, which concerned a number of Cheshire East councillors during the meeting.

However, it was decided to ensure that the conditions cover a detailed transport plan and that guests are made aware of ‘limited parking’ at the site.

Adam Keppel-Garner, town clerk, spoke at the meeting in ‘strong objection’ with the plans on behalf of Knutsford Town Council.

He said: “The sessions house is one of the most important buildings in Knutsford. It contributes greatly to the historic character of our town centre.

“The town council strongly objected and continues to have strong objections. The proposals do not enhance or showcase the original building.

“The design of the proposed extension is not special enough. It needs greater thought, greater sensitivity and greater acknowledgement of a Grade II* listed building.”

Despite the town council’s concerns, Cllr Dean moved to approve the change of use of the building along with the alterations and extensions, and full planning permission has been agreed with various conditions.