A ONCE thriving hotel is to remain empty after plans to convert it were thrown out.

The Great Western Hotel, opposite Shrub Hill Railway Station, in Shrub Hill Road, Worcester, was once, due to its location, hugely popular.

However, in recent years its popularity plummeted and, in January 2006, it closed.

Worcester City Council is now unsure what to do with the vacant building.

The owners have been unable to sell it, the University of Worcester do not want it, it's not suitable for student nurses and now councillors have turned away plans to convert it into flats.

Planning officer Alan Coleman said: "The property was marketed actively among other hoteliers, restaurants and bar operators; however, there was no positive interest because of its poor trading position.

"The use of the building as offices was also explored; however, there is already an existing supply of offices in the market."

He added that the university had been approached, but declined as they were not looking for student accommodation at this time because they are concentrating on converting the former Royal Infirmary site in Castle Street, and that student nurses would not live because they prefer to live adjacent to Worcestershire Royal Hospital.

Although the site is not designated employment land, Shrub HIll has been identified as an existing employment area for improvement.

Mr Coleman said: "Whilst there are no proposals for development at the moment, it is clear to the city council, adjacent landowners and prospective developers, that if Worcester is to be a balanced city, areas such as Shrub HIll must be used for employment purposes."

At a council planning meeting yesterday, proposals to convert the hotel into 11 flats were rejected.

Coun Barry Mackenzie-Williams said: "I'm deeply concerned that if residential use was allowed we would put the existing employment area at risk."

Head of planning Paul O'Connor said he expected the owners to appeal against the decision.

He said: "It's likely that in future years there is going to be development pressure in the Shurb Hill area and we have to ensure that the whatever happens to the Great Western building it will properly co-ordinate with that."