THE expansion of the Compleat Angler Hotel is “brilliant” news for businesses in Marlow, an ex-commerce chief believes.

Andy McCready, former president of the Marlow Chamber of Trade and Commerce, hailed the now approved redevelopment, saying it will attract more tourists and businesses people, therefore boosting trade.

An extra 29 bedrooms will be built at the riverside hotel across Marlow Bridge, after it got the nod from the planning authority last week.

“I think it's brilliant news, especially if they recruit locally and create local jobs,” he said.

“It's good for confidence in the town, I imagine it will bring a lot more people, a mix of businessmen and tourists.

“We need any boost we can get.”

He believes the addition of Baroosh, a bar chain which will replace Lloyds bank on Marlow High Street next year, will also aid trade in the town.

It recently announced 30 new jobs will be created.

Lloyds is moving to a new premise.

He said once these changes have occurred and the hotel upgrade is done, there will be further footfall in the town centre, with more consumers spending their cash, which can only help businesses.

Plans for the hotel also include removing staff accommodation and extending the reception area and entrance.

The Environment Agency withdrew its opposition to the proposal shortly before Councillors at The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead met to make the decision last week.

It had expressed concerns over the impact on the riverside bat population due to proposed decking alterations, but these designs were changed.

The approval prompted Bisham's flood warden Mike Post to quit.

He had long insisted the plans posed a significant flood risk but councillors disagreed, saying the revamped hotel would be less likely to be at risk and would also create a better appearance.