Developers appealed an earlier decision to reject the plans and now the conversion of part of the Londesborough Arms into eight flats can go ahead.

Bagdale Hall Hotels applied for permission to convert part of the hotel into flats and build two cottages where the toilet block stands. This was turned down but the applicants appealed and an Inspector from the Planning Inspectorate has said the work can be carried out.

Once work is completed The Londesborough Arms will be a ten-bedroom hotel with a smaller restaurant and bar area than it currently has and without a function room.

Market Weighton's Mayor, Marian Frith, said the appeal decision had positive elements. Councillor Frith said: "Under the circumstances I think it is the best solution we could have hoped for. The place needs some upgrading from what it is at present and at least we will have an hotel, be it smaller but we hope an asset to Market Weighton.

East Riding Councillor Andy Burton, who represent the Wolds Weighton ward had spoken against the proposal at a previous planning meeting.
Coun Burton said: "I am very disappointed the appeal has gone the way it has, especially as I had opposed any changes. "I worry it's a little bit the thin end of the wedge, what happens if the hotel, in its new form, doesn't survive?"

John L Gray, the planning inspector who dealt with the appeal, said it seemed the objectors had not looked into what profit the business had made or occupancy.

Mr Gray said: "Occupancy rates are said to have varied between 19 per cent and 34 per cent, with a break-even figure of 38 per cent.
"On the basis of those figures, it is not surprising that the appellant claims only one profitable year in the five to 2005.

"It must also be remembered that the hotel would not be lost."