SWINDON planners have deferred controversial plans to expand the listed Chiseldon House Hotel.

The application, which sought to build 18 new bedrooms, a pavilion-style restaurant two function rooms and a bar below ground, has been put on ice while planning officers negotiate with the developer.

Doreen Dart (Con, Blunsdon) said that plans for the restaurant "looked like a row of lavatories" and was certain something better could be put before planners.

The application, on behalf of owners John and Carol Hawken, sought to create a four-storey extension to the historic building in New Road.

One level was to be totally underground and some of the bedrooms would have been built into the roof, reducing the impact of the structure to that of a two-storey building.

The council received objections from village residents, protection groups, Chiseldon Parish Council and the Georgian Society and concerned parking arrangements and fears there would be an increase in noise pollution.

Planners will consider revised plans in three week's time.