PLANS to build a much-needed 31-bedroom hotel in the centre of Petersfield were thrown out by district councillors last week. The proposals, to turn units next to The Red Lion pub in College Street into an hotel, would also see the conversion of the Masonic Hall and outbuildings next to the pub to create eight homes and three shops. The scheme also proposed the use of the pub car park for residential, hotel and public parking, with a further 28 spaces at the Festival Hall car park. EHDC environmental services manager Patricia Hughes told the committee she had concerns purely in terms of the residential units and not over the hotel or retail aspects of the application. Mrs Hughes expressed concern over the potential implication of building the housing for Traders Club in Heath Road and the King's Arms youth club. Councillors were told that complaints over the noise from occupants of the proposed homes could lead to action being taken against The Red Lion, which could possibly lead to its closure. Mrs Hughes told the committee she was certain she would have to serve a noise abatement notice against The Red Lion if the homes were built. Bob Ayer told the committee he was not going to repeat his earlier views, but said he was pleased the developers had satisfied the planners about the hotel itself. He added: "I believe the environmental health officer's concerns are valid." Petersfield district councillor Guy Stacpoole supported the application, describing the hotel as: "Very necessary hotel units which we need in Petersfield and would be good for local business." Despite his pleas, councillors voted overwhelmingly to refuse the scheme.