The owners of a B&B on the outskirts of Canterbury want to convert it into an 18-room, rural boutique hotel.

Stuart Andrews and Georgiana Vasile, who run Oakside Lodge in Upper Harbledown, have submitted plans for what they call a “modest expansion” of the site.

The couple opened the B&B in 2013 in a converted barn with four en-suite rooms, but now want to extend the building to create the extra rooms and a bar and dining area.

They had planned to site several separate log cabins on the land, but city planning officers advised that expanding the existing facilities might be more acceptable.

Stuart said: “The B&B was a totally new venture for us but has been a great success. Our guests really appreciate the tranquillity and beauty of the setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

“We accept the new building is in an area of high landscape value but hope the design will mitigate any impact it might have, and there is planning policy which supports tourism in the countryside.

“The proposed, modest expansion of the facilities to an 18-room boutique hotel is both economically and environmentally sustainable, and would be welcome by both tourists and locals because there is a shortage of this kind of accommodation for people who don’t want to stay in somewhere like a Premier Inn or Travelodge.

“The scheme will blend bespoke design, sustainable construction, and a sensitive view from the property over the Weald landscaping to enhance its position." - Stuart Andrews

“The scheme will blend bespoke design, sustainable construction, and a sensitive view from the property over the Weald landscaping to enhance its position.

“We can only hope that it will be considered OK.”

The couple were due to meet with members of Harbledown and Rough Common parish council yesterday (Wednesday) to discuss the hotel plans.

Parish council chairman Janet Larkinson said: “So far, nobody seems to be throwing their hands up in horror.

“We are looking forward to meeting the owners and examining their plans in more detail before giving a formal opinion to the city council.”