IT could be third time lucky today for developers hoping to win planning permission for a hotel, apartment and leisure complex on Bournemouth’s Winter Gardens site.

Two previous plans to build a cinema, hotel, apartments, shops and public piazza were withdrawn at the 11th hour when it appeared they were going to be refused.

But developers are now confident that they have addressed previous concerns and have a scheme which will revitalise Bournemouth town centre, without any nightclubs or bars.

Their confidence could be rewarded at this afternoon's council planning board meeting when the application, submitted by APB Park and Mr A Bond, with Planning Solutions acting as planning agent, is being recommended for approval.

Outline permission is being sought for the former Winter Gardens concert hall site, currently being used as a car park, and adjoining buildings fronting Exeter Road.

It would see 114 residential flats, including affordable housing, along with a 100-120 bedroom hotel, a cinema, leisure complex, family entertainment space and 550 car parking spaces.

In the report recommending that outline planning permission is granted, subject to conditions, principal planning officer Steve Davies says: “The proposal is considered to be acceptable in terms of its effect upon the character and appearance of the area and its design.

“Furthermore, it would safeguard the amenities of neighbouring residents, having particular regard to their privacy, outlook, any potential overshadowing and quiet enjoyment of their property.”

It is standing room only at the town hall for the meeting. Echo reporter Julie Magee is there - follow her tweets below.