A controversial plan to turn an empty apartment block into a hotel has been a “complete mess from day one” and would have a “severe impact” on the village where it’s been built. 

That was the view of councillors for the Carbis Bay area who pleaded with their colleagues to throw out the change of use proposals – which they unanimously did.

Cornwall Council’s west sub-area planning committee met on Monday to discuss plans by Oceanview Carbis Bay Ltd to turn a block of 37 residential flats for over-55s into an ‘aparthotel’, which would include a gym and reception area.

Not one of the apartments, which have cost almost £33m to build, have been sold.

The apartment block was built on the site of the former Cottage Hotel at Boskerris Road in the seaside village.

Original consent was given on the proviso the apartments were sold as primary homes for people aged over-55 in line with the special Policy H2 section of St Ives Area Neighbourhood Development Plan.

However, the applicant has been unable to sell them and has applied to turn the building into an ‘aparthotel’ where the flats would be used as holiday accommodation. 

But the planning committee unanimously refused the aparthotel plan after considering that each unit was a separate residential dwelling as a matter of law and the proposal was in conflict with the Policy H2 condition of the St Ives Neighbourhood Plan.

Speaking after the decision, the Mayor of St Ives said: “This is a victory for local people. We value our visitor economy, but the parish is reaching saturation point – St Ives and Carbis Bay needs more homes not aparthotels.”