PROPOSALS to install plant equipment outside a South Ayrshire Hotel have been given the green light.

Premier Inn Hotels Limited had submitted plans to South Ayrshire Council for the installation of eight condenser units outside its hotel next to the Dutch House Roundabout on the A77 near Monkton.

Walsingham Planning, on behalf of Premier Inn Hotels, said that six condenser units will be installed on the western elevation of the building at ground floor level and a further two will be installed on the southern elevation.

There will also be some minor changes to the existing pathway for access reasons.

Planning documents stated: "The proposed plant equipment will be in a convenient and appropriate location that fits well with its surroundings. 

"It will provide the hotel with equipment that is essential to the running of the business.

"We note that the proposed plant equipment is located within close proximity to the noise receptors of the caravan park to the south of the site. 

"In this regard, an external noise survey has been arranged to take place."

A noise statement and assessment had been submitted with the application, which concluded that the proposed air conditioning units would have a neutral impact.

Council planners approved the application, stating that the changes would help "safeguard existing employment and tourism" in the area. 

They added: "It is considered that the external plant and associated work is appropriately sited to the southern and western elevations of the building and is not visually intrusive.

"A noise assessment has been undertaken with regard to the potential noise of the new equipment on the patrons of the hotel and adjoining land use (Caravan site).

"Environmental health has been consulted and raise no objections to the proposal. Therefore, it is considered that the proposed development will not adversely impact the amenity of the locale."