A major scheme to convert a former private school in Saundersfoot into a hotel has been approved by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority's development management committee.

The full application submitted by the Hean Castle Estate for the change of use and conversion of the vacant Netherwood School, which has been closed since 2009, to a 15-bedroomed hotel, with associated function rooms and facilities, was given the thumbs up on Wednesday.

The proposals would see the main house of the facility converted and extended to provide three bedrooms on its ground floor, along with the dining room, lounge, reception area, and kitchen, with a further six bedrooms on the first floor, while the stone outbuilding to the west of the site would be converted into another six bedrooms, and linked to the main house and its extensions on the first floor.

A new link to the existing sports hall would allow the change of use of this building as a function room, with associated toilet and kitchen facilities. A new sun terrace would be provided leading out from the dining room and function room, with the existing prefab classrooms being demolished to allow for the provision of a lawned garden area to the south of the building.

Beyond the western outbuilding would be a car park laid out with 63 parking spaces which would be in addition to the 18 spaces provided to the north of the building.

In recommending approval, subject to conditions outlined, Park officers said that the scheme would bring back into use the vacant listed building, which was originally constructed in circa 1840 as a private house, as well as bring employment to the area, and provide a facility of community benefit.

Development management committee member David Ellis said that he "hugely welcomed" the project.

"I congratulate the people behind it on an exciting looking venture," he commented, with fellow member Clr. Tony Brinsden echoing those thoughts.

"The site is fast falling into disrepair, so it would be wonderful for those buildings to be brought into repair and used again. I have no hesitation in recommending approval for the application," remarked Clr. Brinsden.

Members of the committee voted unanimously in favour of the project, with chairman Clr. Simon Hancock adding that he hoped the decision would demonstrate that the National Park Authority was a supporter of economic development.