A hotel’s expansion plans are set to be dashed after the bid attracted almost 80 objections – with some calling it an “eyesore” and “monstrosity”.

Proposals for a five-story extension at the Hotel San Clu on Victoria Parade, Ramsgate, were submitted to Thanet District Council (TDC) in June last year, but look set to be refused next week.

The Grade II-Listed hotel was built in 1883, and its owners applied to TDC last summer for permission to carry out the extensive work.

Agents HCUK Group, writing on behalf of owners Ameeco Holiday Apartments Ltd, say in official planning papers: “The extension would occupy the side garden which sits at the corner of Victoria Parade and Albert Road.

“The San Clu has been operated successfully as a family business since 1989.

“The hotel is now operated by the second generation of the family and they are only the second owners since 1935.

“The extension would facilitate the provision of 19 self-contained flats, 10 would be sold on the open market whilst nine would be retained as holiday accommodation.

“The development would also provide conference facilities, a coffee shop and new reception area at ground floor.”

A “well-being suite” is also proposed in the plans, featuring a gym, spa, sauna and changing rooms.

The planning bid states the project will benefit the tourism industry by providing “both high-end and family holiday accommodation.”

But TDC planning chiefs are recommending members to vote down the application at the planning committee meeting on April 23.

Planning officers say the extension would lead to “an unacceptable loss of light and outlook” for nearby properties.

They also slate the design of the plans, adding: “By virtue of its design and materials it would appear neither as a pastiche continuation of the existing building, nor a sufficiently modern contrast, resulting in a prominent and incongruous development.”

The proposals have been controversial locally, attracting 78 letters of objection and 16 in support.

Neighbour Mr B McGrath writes that they bought their flat 20 years ago “because of the sea views.

“But now the San Clu are going to build this monstrosity which will impact on our view,” he says.

“Not only this - we will have to put up with constant noise, dirt, more parking problems with lorries and vans, parking outside our homes for two years.

“We couldn't sell even if we wanted to, who would want to buy with that eyesore?”

The existing gym and spa in the rear car park were proposed to be demolished, making way for only an extra six spaces, despite all the additional apartments proposed.

“Where will all the increased residents and visitors park? Clearly on all the nearby roads!” said resident Anthea Thomas in her objection.

The owners claim the extension would create a further 20 jobs, on top of the 31 employees it currently has.

CR Sutherland, who lives on the corner of nearby Thanet Road, wrote in to say “I would feel enclosed by its oppressive bulk and overbearing impact with restricted daylight.”

Some wrote in favour, however, with Luke Johnson saying the plans could bring “economic benefits that the area sorely needs.”

Steven Southgate said the plans are “a fantastic idea - currently the space is an empty grass area with ugly walls and little used, so I think this will make the area look more inviting.”

Tobias Cobb wrote in to argue it would “start to make Ramsgate a destination for tourists, bring increased employment and start to raise property values in the local area.”

TDC’s planning committee will make the final call at a meeting in the authority’s Margate council chamber on Wednesday April 23.