PLANS to build a clubhouse with accommodation for a fishing manager at New Forest Water Park near Fordingbridge were refused by councillors.

Members of New Forest District Council's planning committee had received a recommendation from officer Stephen Belli to refuse the scheme.

The application for the new building on the shore of one of the three lakes was considered by the committee at a meeting earlier this month.

Fordingbridge Town Council had supported the proposal, stating it would increase security for an "established and successful business".

However, councillors sided with the officer's guidance and rejected the application on the grounds it would be detrimental to the character and appearance of the area.