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Rochester hotel plan now boasts rooftop terrace

A controversial plan to build a hotel in Rochester is back on the table for the third time.

Proposals for the five-storey building have in the past prompted a barrage of protest amid fears it would irreversibly blot the town's skyline, blocking historic landmarks.

Panoramic view at hotel's proposed rooftop restaurant
Panoramic view at hotel's proposed rooftop restaurant

The latest application for the 100-bedroom business, on the site of a former petrol station and car wash in Corporation Street, now includes a rooftop terrace restaurant overlooking the High Street and its many listed buildings.

And to make a point of the amended design, the applicant has named it The Cathedral View Hotel. The last re-design was called after conservationists, residents and cathedral bosses branded it a "concrete eyesore".

Maidstone-based planning firm, dha has liaised closely with Historic England and Medway Council and taken on board comments for and against submitted in the consultation period.

It has allayed fears over a lack of parking spaces by suggesting providing overnight passes at the nearby multi-storey.

And guests would be encouraged to travel by train.

Robert Tucker opposes the Rochester hotel plan
Robert Tucker opposes the Rochester hotel plan

John Collins from dha said a new architects had been employed and "subtle" changes had been made "showing respect for key views" and landmarks.

Drone footage has been used to ensure heritage sites can be appreciated from the roof terrace on the top floor where this will also be bedroom accommodation.

Mr Collins said: "The report has been amended to reflect the updated site context, with all of the previously agreed strategic views having been re-visited, including the two train journeys between Chatham and Strood, as well as Chatham and Cuxton.

"The hotel will help meet a shortfall in the higher end, lifestyle hotel market and can be expected to make a significant contribution to the local economy."

Robert Tucker, the joint owner of Restoration House, Rochester, is once again objecting to the plan.

Rebecca Collins, pictured with her dad, is behind a boutique-style hotel in the cathedral precincts
Rebecca Collins, pictured with her dad, is behind a boutique-style hotel in the cathedral precincts

He said: "As Rochester now has a Travelodge in close proximity and a luxury boutique hotel due to open in early 2020, this application seems entirely redundant."

As previously reported, the boutique hotel, which is owned by prominent businesswoman Rebecca Collins, had to overcome problems with its power supply.

Comments on this application should reach the council by Friday, October 25.

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