Premier Inn Poole given to expand with new restaurant and more rooms

It is the fifth extension to Holes Bay Premier Inn since it was first built 30 years ago

Premier Inn has received planning permission to extend one of its hotels in Poole. The Holes Bay Premier Inn on Sterte Avenue is set to grow following the submission of plans incorporating 17 extra bedrooms and a revamped restaurant with outdoor seating.

The changes mark the fifth extension to the building since it was first built in 1996. At present, the hotel has 146 bedrooms alongside an adjoining restaurant.

The proposed development will see the existing restaurant demolished and replaced with a brand-new extension. This addition will house a new restaurant and bar, guest rooms and staff facilities.

The restaurant will feature outdoor seating beneath a canopy, with direct access from the reception area.

Five new ground-floor bedrooms will be complemented by a further 12 on the first floor, accessible via a new corridor linking to the reception.

A design and access statement submitted alongside the plans highlights the necessity of the extension.

It argues it is essential for “helping to secure its future and enabling it to continually support the local economy and provide important services to its customers”.

The Society of Poole has voiced its backing for the hotel’s expansion.

BCP Public Health has put forward recommendations regarding improvements to cycle storage, lighting and electric vehicle charging facilities.

The hotel currently employs 33 members of staff, equivalent to 23 full-time positions. It has been confirmed that the expansion will raise each figure by two.

The approval comes attached to a series of conditions that must be satisfied prior to any work starting.

These include carrying out investigations into potential land contamination, securing nutrient mitigation credits to safeguard Poole Harbour, and obtaining council sign-off on drainage, flood management, and biodiversity proposals.

The expansion plan also requires the installation of four new bat boxes, the protection of existing trees throughout the construction period, and a dedication to habitat management and landscaping for no fewer than 30 years.

Evidence must be submitted demonstrating that a minimum of 20 per cent of anticipated energy consumption is drawn from on-site renewable sources.

The restaurant will cater exclusively to hotel guests, ensuring adequate parking provision remains available.

Work must begin within three years of planning permission being granted.