A variation on plans to knock down a former private school in Saundersfoot to turn the premises into a hotel have been backed by local councillors.

Applicants The Hean Castle Estate have submitted ‘revised’ proposals with variations to the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park for the change of use and conversion of the vacant former Netherwood School buildings to hotel use.

The full application and its Listed Building Consent application, classed as a ‘major scheme’ for the change of use and conversion of the vacant school facility to a fifteen bedroomed hotel, with associated function rooms and facilities was approved way back in 2012 by PCNPA.

The applicants state that the proposal would restore a use to a vacant listed building, bring employment into the area, and provide a community facility.

In recommending approval, subject to conditions outlined, Park officers said that the scheme would bring back into use the listed building, which was originally constructed in circa 1840 as a private house.

The ‘revised’ plans for demolition (NP/23/0191/S73) include - extensions to existing buildings, part and full demolition of classrooms, erection of new plant room building and associated car parking and landscaping.

Following consideration of all the information provided by the Planning Authority, Saundersfoot Community Council did not raise any concerns or objections regarding the application when discussed at a recent meeting.

Councillors’ recommendations will now be passed onto the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, whose development management committee will determine the application.

Netherwood School closed its doors after 60 years of providing education for pupils from all over the world back in the summer of 2009.