ATTEMPTS to gain permission to replace a former nursing home with a block of 10 flats in Friars Cliff have been rejected.

The appeal for the Pinebeach nursing home site on Southcliffe Road has been dismissed by the planning inspectorate.

The application was rejected by Christchurch Borough Council's planning committee in July and a government inspector has backed this decision.

In summarising the refusal, the planning inspector, said: "Despite the use of sympathetic materials and soft landscaping, the bulk of the proposal would be dominant and prominent, particularly when viewed on approach to the coast from Southcliffe Road.

"While reasonably localised in its extent, the effect of the scheme would be to diminish unacceptably the character and appearance of the surrounding area."

Applicants Lifecaring Holdings still have planning permission for a smaller 10-flat scheme, which was approved by the council last year.