A CAMPAIGN group has welcomed plans to expand a Hampshire hotel and pub – provided there is enough parking for visitors.

Romsey and District Society has supported plans by the owners of The Cromwell Arms to double the number of rooms for overnight guests from 10 to 20, contrary to a previous report.

It would mean demolishing a lean-to storeroom to add the extra accommodation but would reduce the building’s overall footprint.

However society members were also concerned that the new rooms could overlook neighbouring properties in Mainstone.

A statement by the group said: “Members welcomed the proposals but queried whether sufficient parking provision is available and that some potential risk of overlooking from new dormer windows in bedroom 1 could be overcome by their replacement with rooflights and the enlargement of the north west facing window in the part gable end. In addition, they say flood risk and prevention should be fully addressed before work begins.”

The pub and hotel is owned by national brewery Fullers, which bought it in 2015. It has had a complete overhaul since including a full refurbishment of the pub and restaurant earlier this year.

The proposed extension would give the Cromwell Arms the ability to cater for larger events and improve the customer experience, the owners say.

It is not yet known when Test Valley Borough Council will make a decision on the planning application.

A spokesman for Fuller, Smith and Turner said: “Since acquiring The Cromwell Arms in January 2015, we have comprehensively refurbished the pub. We hope our planning application will be accepted and that we can allay any fears our neighbours may have.”