Plans to expand a North Yorkshire hotel, closing its onsite restaurant to provide more space for rooms, have been approved by the council.

Brewers Fayre in Princes Gate Shopping Park, Catterick Garrison, is to close and be transformed into more hotel space for the Premier Inn chain.

Proposals, put forward by Whitbread PLC, aim to add 15 extra rooms increasing the hotel's total capacity from 62 to 77.

The Brewers Fayre restaurant has been closed to non-hotel guests since July, as Whitbread looks to increase hotel capacity and reduce its restaurant portfolio.

The premises will now cater exclusively to hotel guests, with a smaller breakfast room being part of the revamp.

External changes to the building were also approved, including alterations to the service yard wall, the creation of a small paved area, the installation of a bin store, and minor changes to windows and doors.

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A new external plant area will house equipment such as a condenser and heat pump, with measures in place to manage noise levels.

Local Highway Authority and the Environmental Health departments both reviewed the proposed changes and had no objections, confirming there would be no impact on local traffic, parking, or noise levels.

No objections or comments were received from local residents or businesses during the consultation period.

The site, part of a 2013 redevelopment project, was initially a military recreation ground transformed into a retail and leisure centre, including the Premier Inn hotel.

The development must begin by October 17, 2027, and adhere to detailed plans and reports, including drainage, noise management, and building plans.

Noise emissions from new plant equipment must comply with recommendations from the Noise Impact Assessment dated July 17, 2024.

The closure of the Brewers Fayre reduces dining options in the area, but the increased hotel capacity is expected to attract more visitors, positively impacting the local economy.

Princes Gate Shopping Park's appearance will not be affected as the external alterations are minor, and matching materials will be used.