Ambulances could be delayed by a new aparthotel in York, objectors have claimed.
City of York Council has approved St David Aparthotels’ plans to convert 24, Gillygate into visitor accommodation with seven suites housing up to four guests each.
The company’s plans stated they had a track record of creating high-quality visitor accommodation which blended the convenience of a hotel with the flexibility of apartments.
But seven objectors claimed the development would cause traffic problems in an already-congested street and threaten traditional accommodation providers.
It comes after the plans were lodged with the council in October.
The accommodation is set to be named Gillygate By The Walls.
The building currently houses an empty shop on the ground floor which will be retained for commercial use.
Objectors claimed it was not unknown for up to six cars to be stood waiting at local takeways, causing delays with the aparthotel would worsen.
They added it could also delay ambulances travelling to and from York Hospital, in Wigginton Road.
And those objecting said it would be difficult to control any nuisance behaviour at the site and guests would struggle to find parking nearby.
The first floor previously contained residential flats which had stood vacant for around two and a half years at the time the plans were drawn up.
A meditation centre occupied the ground floor and a chiropractor was there before that but the space is currently empty.
View of the city walls
Plans are set to see the back of the ground floor converted to house two studio apartments.
Housekeeping storage space, laundry facilities and vending machines are also set to be housed on the ground floor.
The first floor would house two studio apartments and one duplex with access to the roof space above.
There would be a further two studio apartments in the second floor roof space. Each apartment would have its own kitchenette and en suite.
Those at the rear of the building would have views on York’s city walls.
Studios would offer accommodation for up to two guests with up to four able to stay in the duplex apartment.
Guest would be expected to abide by a code of conduct which prohibits parties and events and quiet times would be in place from 10pm to 8am.
Plans stated: “The proposed accommodation across the three floors will operate as a small, professionally managed aparthotel offering short stays.
“There is no bar, restaurant or public floorspace, however, we will provide a guest laundry room and vending machines.”
But objectors claimed it was not unknown for up to six cars to be stood waiting at local takeways, causing delays with the aparthotel would worsen.
They added it could also delay ambulances travelling to and from York Hospital, in Wigginton Road.
Objectors also claimed it would be difficult to control any nuisance behaviour at the site and guests would struggle to find parking nearby.
Council planning officers stated the proposals would support tourism in the city.
They added the coming and going of guests could cause noise but it would be acceptable in a city centre area.
