THE owner of a Monmouthshire restaurant is hoping to provide tourist accommodation if his plans are approved next week.

Proprietor and head chef Simon King, of Restaurant 1861 at Cross Ash, near Abergavenny has applied for Planning permission to build a new two storey-building to accommodate six rooms.

Part of the land earmarked for the development forms the restaurant’s public garden and an existing car park.

Objectors to the application include Llangattock Vibon Avel community council on the grounds the site is outside the settlement area of Cross Ash.

A neighbour has also objected to the development raising concerns of intrusive lighting, lack of a public sewer and the prominent nature of the building.

A letter in support of the development points out that the scheme is considered to be in keeping with that of 1861 and that it will provide business opportunities for local people.

Mr King, who has owned the restaurant for two and a half years, said his proposal will offer tourists more choice.

“The application for outline planning permission would give me the opportunity to expand the business and create more choice for tourists wanting to stay in the area,” added Mr King.

Planning officers at Monmouthshire council say similar schemes in rural areas have been approved, including at Alice Springs Golf Club and Newbridge Inn, near Usk.

The officers report supports the application and concluded that it would result in an improved tourist-related facility for the area, which would support existing business and provide business opportunities to local people.

The application is due to be discussed by the planning committee on Tuesday.