PLANS to demolish a Highcliffe bed and breakfast and build apartments in its place have received a number of objections.

The scheme to build residential flats on the site of the Rothesay Hotel in Lymington Road have been opposed by several neighbours and Christchurch council's conservation officer.

There would be two new buildings on the site, with 20 apartments built in total, the planning application says.

But residents objecting to the scheme say the development is out of character with nearby properties.

One neighbour said: "We are concerned about this proposal to demolish the existing property and replace it with two apartment blocks.

"It seems to us that the whole nature of this west side of Highcliffe runs the risk of being most adversely affected by buildings which are completely out of character with the other adjoining and nearby properties.

"The overall bulkiness of the proposed development will be severely in opposition to the existing low rise dwellings and create a most unwelcome change to this area.

"It will also overlook to an unacceptable degree the nearby houses in Rothesay Drive leading to a loss of privacy in the gardens and the rear rooms of those houses."

Another resident added: "I understand that there is only provision for one parking space for each apartment on the proposed development. This is clearly totally inadequate. Where are visitors to go? There needs to be at least 25 per cent more parking spaces to cope with those two car households plus potential visitors."

Conservation officer, Kathryn Melhuish said: "Having viewed the site, the main building has little aesthetic or historic value.

"However the boundary wall is a continuation of the Highcliffe castle boundary wall, and as such has great historic significance. Therefore without seeing more detailed plans, surrounding exiting and entering the carpark, I am unable to support this outline application."