PLANS to convert a disused New Forest nursery site into eight office units are set to be refused as it is deemed to not have "any direct benefit to the local community".

The proposals for Hollins Nursery in Sway Road, Pennington, are set to be discussed by New Forest National Park Authority's planing committee on Tuesday, June 18.

The scheme involves the demolition of the existing buildings on the site, however, a planning officer has recommended refusal of the development.

A report to the committee says: "There is no provision in the New Forest National Park Core Strategy for new business development in open countryside, particularly as it would not involve the re-use of existing buildings or the redevelopment of an established employment use.

"It has not been demonstrated that the proposal would be of any direct benefit to the local community or that it would contribute to the understanding and enjoyment of the New Forest.

"The proposal would set an undesirable precedent for similar proposals thereby leading to further erosion of the visual amenities of the area and a significant increase in vehicular activity."