A farmhouse site in Bicester, Oxfordshire is seeking planning permission for the development of a boutique hotel on the premises.
According to the Oxford Mail, planning permission has been filed with local council for the use of existing buildings at Merton Grounds Farm, in Langford Lane, for a new house and hotel.
Currently, the site has approval for commercial use with businesses on-site providing restoration and storage of high-end vehicles.
According to the application, as obtained by the Oxford Mail, the boutique hotel site aims to increase the number of overnight stays in the area and provide an alternative to larger hotels in the area, including the Bicester Heritage Hotel and the Great Wolf Lodge.
The application stated: “The niche for the site will be its smaller size and attractive grounds in a rural countryside setting, yet close to amenities.”
“The proposal is to re-use some of the existing dwelling for a five-bedroom boutique hotel. This would make suitable use of the existing large dwelling.
“The accommodation would be available for people to stay when their specialist vehicles are being cared for in the adjacent businesses and would also serve part of the wider tourism market for people wishing to stay near Bicester but in a countryside location but with the convenience of being right next to Bicester.”
The application adds that the remainder of the property would continue to function as a private dwelling, and would be occupied by the proprietor.
If plans are approved, a dining room would also be built in the former stable to the south of the main house.
According to the Oxford Mail, there has not yet been any objections submitted to Cherwell District Council.
