PLANS to build an extension on a community centre in Highcliffe have been refused by the council - as it may harm the listed building.

Members of Christchurch council's planning committee refused to approve plans for an extension on the Greystones building in Waterford Road.

The Highcliffe Community Association applied to build the single storey extension on the property and remove a small section of the roof fascia and guttering and to add a new partition across the existing kitchen to form two new rooms.

The scheme also included plans for a petanque or boules court in the garden, to the south of the existing building.

Greystones is a Grade II listed building which dates back to 1911/12, and is noted as being an important example of the arts and crafts period of architecture.

The proposal aimed to create more space for less mobile visitors to the centre.

The original architect of the building, Edward Schroeder Prior, was instrumental in establishing the arts and crafts movement.

In a report to the planning committee, Historic England, said the structure is a "relatively rare survival of an important arts and crafts style house" which is considered to be "the most important domestic building from the later stages of his career."

In objecting to the plans, Historic England added: "Whilst there is sympathy for the applicants to improve facilities and endorse the community use of the building, we cannot support a scheme which would cause significant harm to an important aspect of the building's design."

The council's conservation officer also objected to the plans.

But 23 letters were sent in support of the proposal from residents who said there is growing need for the facility, which could be opened up to younger people and families.

The planning report no evidence has been submitted to justify the benefits that outweigh the harm to the building.

It was refused by members of the planning committee.