PLANS to build a hotel next to a pub in Wrexham look set to be approved.

Marstons entered a planning application to build accommodation with 24 beds next to the Plas Coch on one of the town’s main retail parks back in May.

Planning officers from Wrexham Council have now given their backing to the proposals ahead of a meeting next week.

It comes despite concerns being raised by one neighbour over the amount of traffic on the Plas Coch Retail Park.

In his report, the authority’s head of environment and planning admitted there were problems with vehicles left queuing, but said the development was unlikely to have a significant impact.

Lawrence Isted said: “The proposed hotel is intended to enhance the existing local facilities including the Glyndwr University campus and North Wales Tennis Centre.

“The main issues to consider relate to the impact of the development upon highway safety, trees, and upon the character and appearance of the area.

“The existing road network serving the retail park suffers from capacity issues during weekday peak times and at the weekend when queueing delays are experienced.

“The submitted traffic data indicates that the traffic generation associated with the proposed hotel is minimal and it is therefore considered unlikely to have any significant impact on the existing highway network in this location.

“The proposed hotel is considered acceptable in terms of scale and design, and adequate onsite parking has been provided together with safe and satisfactory vehicular and pedestrian access.”

In a design and access statement, Marstons said they would result in 10 new jobs to assist with housekeeping, cooking and reception duties.

They added that access to the hotel would be gained through a keycard security system with reception services operating 24 hours a day.

They said: “As part of a nationwide development programme, Marstons are looking to provide high quality and best value overnight accommodation on selected sites across their estate.

“These facilities will be provided within small scale lodges and will cater for the modern day traveller, be they on business or at leisure, as individuals or as a group or family.

“The proposed lodge will result in additional part time employment opportunity for local people with up to 10 additional full and part time positions to assist with housekeeping and reception duties in the lodge and additional service for breakfast in the existing pub/restaurant.”

The proposals are set to be considered by planning committee members on Monday (September 3, 2018).