IT could be third time lucky for developers hoping to win planning permission for a hotel, apartment and leisure complex on Bournemouth’s Winter Gardens site.

Two previous plans to build a cinema, hotel, apartments, shops and public piazza were withdrawn at the 11th hour when it appeared they were going to be refused.

But developers are now confident that they have addressed previous concerns and have a scheme which will revitalise Bournemouth town centre, without any nightclubs or bars.

Their confidence could be rewarded at next Monday’s council planning board meeting when the application, submitted by APB Park and Mr A Bond, with Planning Solutions acting as planning agent, is being recommended for approval.

Outline permission is being sought for the former Winter Gardens concert hall site, currently being used as a car park, and adjoining buildings fronting Exeter Road.

It would see 114 residential flats, including affordable housing, along with a 100-120 bedroom hotel, a cinema, leisure complex, family entertainment space and 550 car parking spaces.

Six letters of support and two letters of objection have been sent to the Town Hall.

While The Theatres Trust supports the application, the local Ramblers’ group has objected along with the Civic Society who claim the plans are out of keeping with the character of the site.

Letters of support have been received from local residents citing the economic benefits of the scheme.

Recommending that outline planning permission is granted, subject to conditions, principal planning officer Steve Davies says: “The proposal is considered to be acceptable in terms of its effect upon the character and appearance of the area and its design.

“Furthermore, it would safeguard the amenities of neighbouring residents, having particular regard to their privacy, outlook, any potential overshadowing and quiet enjoyment of their property.”

But Chris Colledge, chairman of West Cliff Green Residents’ Association, fears the new development will be “another Imax” and a “blot on the landscape,” adding: “It’s totally inappropriate and not in keeping with the architecture, beauty and uniqueness of Bournemouth.”