A PUBLIC inquiry is set to be held to address contraversial plans to demolish the An Mor Hotel in Bude.

In 2024, plans were submitted by Churchill Retirement Living to demolish the iconic An Mor Hotel to replace it with 39 retirement apartments.

Since the plans were announced, there has been widespread concern from those living in and around the town.

After initially being refused by Cornwall Council, citing the need for affordable housing and the environmental impact of the development, the council’s planning department, following a change in regulation, has altered its stance.

The proposed development would provide 39 apartments alongside an internal ‘owner's lounge’ and coffee bar as well as external amenity space designed for passive exercise and the visual enjoyment of residents.

Alongside more than 100 comments on the planning application, locals have been very vocal about the impact it may have.

Speaking to the Post, one resident said: “There is no infrastructure in place to build anymore homes in Bude. Until we have new schools, dentists and doctors surgeries personally I think there should be no more building.”

While another added: “This is the most ridiculous place for elderly folk. Hills to the beach which, in its blurb, says it’s ‘next to’. No GPs, dentists or A&E and ambulances can’t get to it in heavy traffic as it’s smack in the middle of the one way.

“We need lets for our local young families not more retirement flats for the well off, second homes or holiday lets.”

Now the plans are set for a public inquiry next week, where local bodies and members of the public will be able to have their say with planners and Cornwall Council’s planning department.

Held at the Falcon Hotel on March 25 at 10am, the meeting is open to the public. However, only those who have submitted an application prior to the meeting will be permitted to speak.