A HOTEL could be developed on a village farm if a planning application is approved by councillors.

The farm building on land to the northwest of Norton Hall Cottages in Cold Norton could be developed into an 11-bedroom hotel.

Plans have been submitted to change the use of a 448sq metre barn on the site, currently used for agricultural storage.

The building would be split into 11 self-sufficient aparthotel units, consisting of a lounge kitchenette, bedroom and bath and shower facility.

A total of 12 car parking spaces are proposed, with two disabled bays and one staff bay.

Two of the spaces will have electric charging points and a refuse and bicycle storage facility will be included.

The hotel will use the farm's existing shared access and driveway.

In the supporting statement, the applicant said: “The proposed change of use of the major component of the agricultural building to a flexible commercial use will support the rural economy, employment opportunity during the conversion construction and as part of management and upkeep of the aparthotel facilities and provide a viable future use for this redundant farm building and enable farm diversification.”

Maldon District Council will have the final say.