DEVELOPERS hoping to convert a former Knutsford hotel into a house of multiple occupation for ‘professional people’, and would ‘not accept benefits’, have been blocked by councillors.

Cheshire East’s northern planning committee refused planning permission for the owners of the Longview Hotel, on Manchester Road, due to the fact the parking proposals went against the council’s standards.

Speaking on behalf of the owners, South Manchester Homes agent Jonathan Martin said: “They are local people who have lived in Knutsford for 25 years. Due to Covid-19, they have had their business decimated so they are in a position of financial difficulty.

“We are looking to diversify their business. We will ensure that tenants are the best possible people.

“They will be professional people to a high standard. We, as a business, do not accept benefits.”

A number of councillors questioned Mr Martin’s assertion, but ultimately the committee reject the bid on planning considerations alone.

“It is the 21st century and we should be providing good quality accommodation for everybody,” argued ward Cllr Stewart Gardiner, speaking on the size of the proposed rooms.

He added: “Is there any street parking in these notices? The hotel has some but it is not part of the application.”

Councillors refused two applications for different properties which were both once part of the hotel.

One was on Manchester Road, with the other on Victoria Street.