Councillors have backed plans to convert a former Masonic Lodge in Broxburn despite fears about increased traffic.
Eight people objected to the plan for the “eyesore” building, some fearing it would be used as a migrant hostel.
But the principal concerns addressed to a meeting of the Development Management Committee were that the planned hotel business would bring more traffic onto an already busy main street.
Applicant, Mr B Omeri, applied for planning permission to a change of use of the Masonic Lodge, 102 East Main Street, Broxburn, from a hall to a hotel and public bar.
The lodge is an imposing but semi-derelict building in otherwise busy town centre.
A report by planners said: “The unlisted building is of traditional appearance and construction and fronts the main road. The site is located within the Proposed Broxburn Conservation Area and town centre. The surrounding area is characterised by a mix of commercial, service, and residential uses.”
It added: “The proposal is for the conversion of a disused building into hotel accommodation, with reconfiguration of the internal layout to provide bar and restaurant facilities at ground floor level and new bedrooms to upper floor levels.
“Externally, the door and windows will be renewed, and a new side entrance is to be formed at east elevation. The external rear stair well is to be extended vertically to allow access to upper floor rooms, and a beer garden is to be formed at the rear of the building. An external ventilation system is proposed to the west elevation of the building. “
Objectors said a new hotel would bring more traffic and add to parking problems. There were also concerns about noise, disruption and anti-social behaviour
One said: “Broxburn does not need another hotel, they need more shops. It will just cause more congestion and disruption to this area; the residents don’t need it.”
Another said: “This area of Broxburn is already highly congested with limited parking available for the current residents and businesses.”
A third wrote the hotel “could end up being used for immigrants. No parking, a public bar could cause more rowdy behaviour, currently plenty drinking and eating facilities. Initially thought the planning application was for flats. Housing would be more beneficial to the town.”
Two wrote in support of the conversion. One said: “The Masonic Lodge has lay empty for years and we need something like a restaurant and pub to take family/friends to. This is long overdue. I have lived in Broxburn all my life and something new would really be an addition.”
Local councillor Tony Boyle backed the conversion. He told the meeting: “There have been some objections about parking, but officials are happy. I think it is something we should welcome in Broxburn.”
Councillor Pauline Clark said the building had become a “bit of an eyesore” and added: “I think it is a positive change for the building.”
Chair of the committee, Councillor Harry Cartmill backed Councillor Boyle’s recommendation to support the plans saying: “it was good for the centre of Broxburn.”
By Stuart Sommerville, Local Democracy Reporter
