FRESH proposals to redevelop a prominent seaside hotel and restaurant will go before Bournemouth’s planning committee on Monday.

Planning officers are recommending councillors approve the scheme, which would see the existing Bournemouth International Hotel and Ocean Palace restaurant in Priory Road demolished and replaced with a larger restaurant and 86 flats.

The development would consist of two blocks of flats set above an 88-space underground car park, while the restaurant will be situated on the corner of Beacon Road and Priory Road.

Nine of the flats would be holiday lets and will be marketed at 20 per cent below market value to attract investors.

In his report to the planning committee, planning officer Steve Davies said the “stylish, modern design” of the two blocks would create a “distinctive landmark” in the town.

A spokesman for applicant Taylor Wimpey said: “Our proposed scheme for the regeneration of the Bournemouth International Hotel will transform this landmark site into a development of 86 high-quality apartments and holiday lets, together with a new restaurant and basement car parking.

“We have worked closely with the local planning authority to create a sustainable development that features an attractive design and respects the West Cliff Conservation Area opposite the site.”

Westbourne and West Cliff councillor Barry Goldbart said he had always supported the principle of the development and was satisfied the scale and design of the proposed new buildings were right.

“From my point of view it seems like a good deal for the town and will be an attractive addition to the coastline,” he said.