A DECISION on controversial plans for a hostel has been deferred again by a council.

On July 29, Gravesham Council decided to delay a decision on HFHA Group Ltd’s applications to turn Cygnet House in Windmill Street, Gravesend, into a 48 bedroom hostel or hotel.

The developer submitted a report on how it expected a hostel or hotel would affect crime and safety in the surrounding area the day before the meeting, not giving councillors enough time to read it.

A decision on the application is expected to be made by the council’s regulatory board on September 2.

Nearby residents have opposed it, with Gordon Jenns, aged 63, of Sheppy Place, saying: “A hostel will be noisy with people coming and going late at night. A proper hotel would be better.”

The council also deferred a decision on the hostel at its June 24 meeting because HFHA had not submitted the crime and safety report.