PLANS for a new larger outdoor swimming pool at a five-star Bournemouth hotel have been given the green light by council officers.

The owners of the Nici, formerly the Savoy Hotel, are in the middle of a huge phased refurbishment of the West Cliff site.

Nicolas James Group has tabled several planning applications with BCP Council to carry out the project.

One of these related to a new 30-metre linear pool, which would be located in place of the existing central pathway. To the side there will be a “generous terrace” with a bridge link build from the restaurant terrace to the swimming pool.

The application was approved by local authority officers under delegated powers.

A report by a BCP Council planning officer said: “The pool is a development which is in keeping with the hotel function, and would replace an existing outdoor pool on the site.”

It added: “The proposed extensions would enhance the tourism offer of the building and would not have a harmful impact on the character and appearance of the conservation area or the living conditions of neighbouring residents.”

Eldon James, Nici Hotels managing director, said "Having completed our first phase of refurbishment, with a £20m investment so far, we are delighted with the amount of praise and support we have received from both visiting guests and the local community. 

"As we move into the next phase of refurbishment, we are extremely pleased with the planning approval for our proposed feature outdoor pool, and we are eagerly awaiting a decision on our planning application for the proposed spa and fitness facilities, rooftop restaurant, garden cafe and improvement works to our car park. 

"All these proposed upgrades will ensure we are able to deliver a five-star offering and can continue serving our local community and guests in the future."

The wider application for the overall project is still being considered by council planners.

The plans for the existing swimming pool are for a subterranean level salt cave and changing rooms for the new pool and hotel spa offering.

Commenting on the overall proposals, a BCP Council tourism officer said: “The proposals are supported by destination development and are in line with our gap analysis of what the resort needs and could sustain and will have a positive impact for the West Cliff area.

“The proposal, along with the improved spa and fitness facilities and the increase in function and meeting place to support conferences and related events in the area will help create a five-star hotel offering that will positively contribute to the West Cliff Area.”

The Miami-inspired Nici, which has 73 bedrooms, opened to guests in June.