PLANS to almost double the size of the Queensferry Lodge Hotel in North Queensferry are set to be tweaked following a request to amend planning permission.

The Press previously told you about the Cairn Group's plans to put in an extra five-storey, 73-bedroom extension to the 77-room hotel last year, and to reduce car parking spaces by 28 from the current 180.

The plan, which also includes a spa/gym area, would bring the total number of rooms to 150, with 152 parking spaces, of which six will be marked as disabled.

It would also almost double the hotel floor space from 5250 sq m to 10,247 sq m.

Planning permission was approved in March last year, but the requested amendments will see a scaling back of the eastern elevation, with only a minimal third-floor extension, and the conservatory in the middle of the hotel.

The approved tower in the centre of the hotel would be reduced in height and the extent of glazing would also be reduced.

In addition, the western extension would be reduced significantly in area but retain its approved height.

Fife Council confirmed that the requested variation has been approved, and that the changes are considered “modest and reasonable” relative to the approved planning permission.

The accompanying design statement had considered that “the existing hotel is not viable and its long-term future is reliant of increasing the numbers.”

The statement, by agents England and Lyle, added, “The application proposal is seeking to provide an extension to the existing hotel to provide a further 73 rooms in order to accommodate a higher level of visitors to the area.

“The current hotel has been built to a prosaic design which reflects a commercial character and is clearly dated in terms of its design and appearance.

“It is considered that the existing hotel creates an underwhelming welcome to Fife and as such, the current proposals will improve the appearance at this site.”