Cotswold planners have rejected a scheme to convert a garage into a holiday let after fears that it would ‘hollow out’ the village. 

Ben Court asked Cotswold District Council for permission to convert the building at 15 Main Street in Coln St Aldwyns.

His plans included making alterations to the 48sqm garage and turning into a two bedroom holiday let.

Council officers said the scheme would involve minimal changes to the garage and felt it would not impact the Cotswolds Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the conservation area. 

They recommended approving the proposals but it was referred to the planning committee by ward councillor Ray Theodoulou over concerns over its impact on the local environment and highways safety. 

The parish council objected to the scheme along with some 30 residents.

They felt it would lead to the loss of on-street parking, its location was unsuitable and posed road safety fears.

“Those problems remain as day-to-day concerns of the community,” an objector told yesterday's planning committee meeting.

“There are already some nine properties in our small village with permission for, or operating as short-term holiday lets, as well as the New Inn which has some 15 bedrooms.  

“We welcome those visitors but allowing more holiday lets runs the risk of hollowing out the village and undermining the resident community.” 

Kath Slater, speaking on behalf of the applicant, said the scheme was in line with planning policy and asked for the committee to approve it. 

“Your officers have advised that the proposals accord with the policy,” she said. 

“Your officers support the design and consider that it would preserve both the setting of nearby listed buildings and the character of the conservation area.” 

But councillor Patrick Coleman proposed rejecting the scheme over the impact it would have on local people and that it failed the minimum space standards for accommodation. 

“The further creation of holiday accommodation is inappropriate in this village given the high level that already exists,” he said.

“The appearance of the proposal would not enhance in any way the conservation area.” 

The committee unanimously rejected the proposals.