IT gives new meaning to the word airbnb.

A decommissioned plane is the subject of a planning application to turn it into bed and breakfast accommodation.

Colden Common businessman Steven Northam bought the front half of the plane on eBay from Chichester College where it was used to train aircrew.

After completing the refit, Mr Northam has now submitted a planning application to Winchester City Council to change the land, at Hangar Nurseries, Thompsons Lane, near Owslebury, from agricultural to tourism.

Two comments in support of the proposal have been received. 

Hampshire Chronicle:

Amie Padfield, of Home Farm Estate, Hursley, said: “The proposal would bring a derelict site back into positive use which would benefit the area.

READ MORE: Man who turned plane into annexe on home improvement show to open it as Airbnb

“I believe it will also help to increase the local economy and tourism, and in doing so, will provide local employment opportunities in the management of the site and the Airbnb unit itself.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

Andrew Pringle, of Bell Street, Romsey, said: “This proposal, if approved, would be another step towards improving the look and use of this space. 

“It would also provide an additional local resource with minimum impact on its surroundings and the local infrastructure. Not only this, it is a novel idea and a fine example of British entrepreneurship at its best.”

The planning statement said: “The proposal is to site part of a decommissioned aircraft for use of a holiday let behind the agricultural dwelling and its annex on land that was formerly used for horticulture, and to change the use of the land from former horticulture to tourism.

Hampshire Chronicle:

“The internal refit of the plane has been completed, but lettings have not commenced as yet.

“The application consists of two elements, the first is the siting of part of a decommissioned aircraft for use as a holiday let, the second being the change of use of land on which it sits to tourism.

“Overall, the proposal is for a small scale, unusual but unobtrusive structure and change of use which is acceptable in Local Plan policy terms.

“As such, it is respectfully requested that the proposal is approved without delay.”

To read more about the application online, search 23/00927/FUL.