A PROPOSAL to re-develop a prominent quayside building has been turned down by Poole planners who said it should be more in keeping with the town's heritage.

But they have left the door open for applicants Acorn South to reapply, saying they would welcome redevelopment of Corkers on Poole Quay.

The prominent site on the corner of the High Street is in the Town Centre Heritage conservation area and the aim was to convert and extend the building to retain a restaurant on the ground floor and build seven apartments over three storeys with the top floor recessed.

The building would be approximately 1100mm higher than the existing one and slightly higher than the adjoining 3 High Street, and clad in vertical fibre cement in shades of green.

However it would also result in the loss of tourist accommodation as Corkers, created in 1944 and thought to be the longest established restaurant in Poole, provides bed and breakfast accommodation.

Case officer Eleanor Godesar's report concluded that: "The proposal, as a result of its design, lack of vertical emphasis, appearance and materials would fail to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the site surrounding listed buildings and their setting and the ...conservation area."

Also the applicant had not demonstrated the B&B accommodation was either financially unviable or that its loss would not materially harm Poole's existing tourism provision, the report said.

Historic England commented that the design was, "entirely at odds with the character and appearance of its surroundings" and "of a style and appearance alien to the quay and High Street".

Poole Quay Forum said: "The proposal is of contemporary design which fails to reflect or respond to the existing and important character of the quayside or lower High Street."

Cllr Peter Pawlowski, chairman of Borough of Poole's planning committee said: “The planning committee were supportive of many of the aspects of the scheme and made it clear they welcomed redevelopment of this important site.

"However the Committee thought the design and materials, in such a sensitive conservation area, should make a far stronger link to Poole’s heritage.

“It is hoped the applicants are not deterred, take on board the positive comments made and come back with proposals that will significantly improve this unique part of Poole.”