A POPULAR seafront restaurant will not be extended after a government inspector agreed with Christchurch planners that it would be “visually intrusive” and “out of character.”

The owner of the Noisy Lobster in Mudeford hoped to add another floor to create seating for a further 46 customers.

But the council’s decision to turn it down has now been supported following an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate.

The original application attracted 131 letters of objection and a 479-signature petition but owner Peter Hayward decided to appeal and Inspector Rory Cridland visited the site last month. His decision and report have just been made public.

He said: “When viewed from the promenade and from along the beach, the increased bulk and size of the extension would result in a building which would dominate the beachfront.

“It would appear visually intrusive, appearing both out of scale and out of character with the surrounding landscape features.”

Mr Cridland said the impact of an extension from the coast path would be considerable and would remove part of the view across the bay and towards the cliffs in the distance.

“This would further erode the character of the surroundings and would negatively impact on local distinctiveness.”

He said he took note of Mr Hayward’s reference to the need for a larger premises and demand for additional seating.

But he added: “These do not, in my view, overcome the harm to the character and appearance of the surrounding area.

“While I acknowledge that the proposal would result in an increase in the number of customers that could be accommodated as well as the additional employment opportunities it would provide, these benefits are limited and I afford them only a moderate amount of weight. I conclude that the appeal should be dismissed.”