A popular Isle of Wight hotel will get a new changing room to serve its outside swimming pool - so bathers don't have to walk from the pool through the restaurant anymore.

Steven Wells of Garden Isle Hotels' planning application to install the structure at the three star Luccombe Hall Hotel in Shanklin has been approved by the Isle of Wight Council.

A Design, Access and Heritage Statement prepared by architectural practice Nova Architectural on behalf of the applicant said: "The proposal which has been put forward envisages the erection of a changing room to extend from the pump station to ensure it fits harmoniously with the existing outbuilding, and ties into the aesthetic of the existing swimming pool area.

"The current route to the internal changing rooms is 67 metres long and involves passing through the restaurant.

"This can make guests feel uncomfortable and self-conscious, particularly when the restaurant is busy.

"My client aims to address this issue to enhance guest comfort and create a more welcoming environment at Luccombe Hall Hotel, which this proposal intends to achieve."

A council officer report explaining the decision said: "The proposed changing room outbuilding would be acceptable in terms of size, scale, mass and design.

"Given the modest proposed footprint, flat roof, proposed external materials and the single storey nature of the proposal, the proposed outbuilding would form a minor and subordinate addition relative to the existing surrounding built form.

"The application site shares the northern boundary with the Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel which is under the same ownership as the application hotel.

"The proposed changing room would not adversely impact the amenity areas of this neighbouring property above that currently experienced."

The document added the changing room would also have 'no additional impact' on a neighbouring property at 6 Luccombe Road.

County Hall attached two conditions to its approval: that development starts within three years of permission being granted and submitted plans are adhered to.

Garden Isle Hotels' latest bid follows a failed attempt by the company to substantially extend the Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel to meet increased demand.

The planning inspectorate dismissed an appeal made by the firm earlier this month.