PLANS to convert and extend a site in Wakes Colne into an AirBnB have been rejected.

The application had proposed alterations to Wood Cottage, in Bures Road, to create a two-bedroom Air BnB holiday let.

According to a planning statement accompanying the plans, the applicant sought to convert the existing carport, office and storage by removing the existing roof.

Meanwhile, additional roof alterations would have created the first floor accommodation, providing two double bedrooms and en-suites. 

There would have been a lounge, kitchen and dining room on the first floor, while the windows would have been positioned to enable "limited overlooking" to neighbours.

A Colchester Council spokesman said: “The site is situated in an unsustainable location, resulting in visitors to the accommodation relying primarily on private vehicles to travel to facilities and attractions.

“As a result, the proposed development is not considered to represent a sustainable form of rural tourism and would not directly benefit or support local shops, pubs and other rural services. 

“There is insufficient evidence to demonstrate that there is a need for tourism accommodation in this area and/or a lack of existing tourism facilities in nearby villages.”

Wakes Colne Parish Council had said they did not object to the plans.

The Highway Authority said they found the impact of the proposals to be “acceptable”, provided on-street parking in adjoining streets did not occur in the interests of highway safety.