Bath Royal Mineral Water Hospital hotel plans rejected

The Fragrance Group's plans to turn Bath's Royal Mineral Water Hospital building into a 164-bedroom luxury hotel have been rejected by the local authorities.

Bath and North East Somerset Council refused planning permission due to concerns over the impact the development would have on the character of the Grade II*-listed building, as well as local residents and biodiversity in the area.

The plans also included a restaurant, health spa, bar, and lounge and meeting spaces.

A spokesperson for Fragrance said: "We are extremely disappointed by the decision taken by members last month, especially given the positive recommendation for approval we had received from officers following over 18 months of hard work with officers, statutory consultees and stakeholders.

"The proposals for the Mineral Water Hospital represent an important opportunity to rejuvenate the landmark building in a sensitive manner and bring it in to positive use once again. The plans would also deliver approximately £35m investment in to the city of Bath and create 120 full-time jobs, helping to support local growth in these difficult and uncertain economic times.

"We are currently taking time to reflect on the issues that were raised by members and local residents and are considering our next steps."

The group announced last year that it would "sensitively develop plans for a four-star hotel which respects and honours the original building", having acquired the property.

The Singapore-based group also owns the Imperial Hotel Blackpool, the Crown hotel in Harrogate, the Palace Torquay, and Manchester's Townhouse hotel.