CHESTER University has submitted plans to convert Chester Youth Hostel into a hall of residence for 31 students.
The university, which is in advanced negotiations to close a deal with the Youth Hostel Association, has submitted a speculative plan for the Hough Green hostel, which is due to close in September.
It was being marketed for £750,000.
But residents in the well-to-do neighbourhood are worried their peace will be shattered.
Objector Stephen Howarth wrote: “I am advised by those who live in parts of Chester subject to a student presence that there is considerable noise and rowdiness resulting from the student presence – particularly in the early hours and this is no great surprise.”
The university has also shown interest in taking over the former Odeon cinema, which could be converted into a teaching facility with a community arts facility.
And it wants to create a student village on land north of its campus.
Some locals believe it could offer respite from the ‘studentification’ of their community while others are against any more development.
University ‘key’ to city’s future: See page 6.
