PLANS for an extension at Christchurch Sailing Club were unanimously approved by councillors despite residents’ opposition.

The extension to the club, which fronts the picturesque Christchurch Quay, will be on the first floor only and will be used as a meeting room.

The existing room is used for training and meetings but the club want to modernise the facility to make it fit for use.

At a meeting of Christchurch council’s planning committee on Thursday, a decision to approve the plans was passed by all councillors.

This was despite representations from residents of Priory Quay, who expressed concerns over increased traffic and parking issues.

Twenty-seven letters of objection were submitted over the size of the development and its impact on the conservation area, and the disruption caused by the building process. There were also concerns that the work would “degrade the amenity value of the whole area, without any potential community benefit”, a report to the planning committee stated.

Before the meeting, commodore of the sailing club Lawrence Crapper said the room would only be used for meetings and training. He moved to reassure residents that it was not to attract new members but to provide better facilities for existing ones.

But concerns were still expressed over extra noise, overlooking and light pollution, particularly towards Priory Quay properties.

However, planning officers felt that because the extension is tapered, the shortest part would face the properties, meaning the level of overlooking would not be materially harmful to warrant refusal.

The proposal was approved providing samples of materials to be submitted along with window and glazing details, lighting and noise control.

Matt Stevens from Aspire Architects, who designed the extension, said he spoke at the committee.

“Members unanimously approved the application. We’re really pleased for the sailing club. It’s been given the go-ahead,” he added.