'Unpopular' hotel plans withdrawn

Plans for a 220-bed hotel, thought to be a Travelodge, in Cambridge have been withdrawn after public opposition.

Developers Eastern Gate Properties had put forward proposals for the hotel on the south side of Newmarket Road.

But after Cambridge City Council officers recommended refusal of the plans, they were withdrawn before the planning committee met on Wednesday.

The scheme, opposed by the Riverside Area Residents' Association, was seen as too big for the site.

'Site needs redevelopment'

Residents felt the planned hotel was too big and would cause traffic problems.

Councillor Alan Baker, chairman of the committee, welcomed the decision to withdraw the plans, which he understood to be for a Travelodge.

"I am pleased because the officers recommended refusal in a strongly worded report which pointed any many serious faults," he said.

He said the council was still keen for the site to be developed.

"The site is badly in need of redevelopment and we hope the applicant comes back with a revised application," he said.

No-one from Travelodge was available for comment about the case.