A MAJOR revamp at a Bournemouth hostel has received council approval despite concerns over parking.

Bournemouth Churches Housing Association is carrying out a £1 million refurbishment at its St Paul's hostel in St Paul's Lane, adding new toilets, a gym, café and new treatment facilities.

Work is under way and due to be finished in March.

Council planning officers raised concerns about the loss of the building's parking spaces before granting retrospective approval.

A report by planning officer Joscelyn Holbrook states: "The loss of the car parking is contentious as the on-road parking surrounding the hostel is restricted.

"The staff, doctors and police are required to visit the site throughout the week and the loss of on-site parking provision will displace the demand onto the surrounding network."

However, the borough agreed to back the plans provided a new cycle store is provided.