PLANNING chiefs have approved proposals to replace a bus shelter that was destroyed when a lorry crashed into an ancient cottage in the New Forest.

The vehicle was travelling through Breamore when it left the road and ploughed into the front of the Grade II-listed Japonica Cottage, causing extensive damage to the property.

Now Breamore Parish Council has been given permission to replace an adjoining shelter that was smashed to pieces.

A heritage and design statement which formed part of the application said: "The lorry struck and destroyed the bus shelter together with the front wall of the dwelling, resulting in part of the front wall and roof collapsing.

"At present the dwelling is not habitable and is undergoing remedial work.

"This work is being carried out separately as the dwelling and the bus shelter are under separate ownership. The only remaining part of the shelter is its substructure."

The application to provide a replacement shelter has been approved by New Forest District Council.

A report to members said the cottage, parts of which date from the 15th century, was being rebuilt after planning applications were granted consent last year.

Referring to the proposed new shelter it added: "As it would be replacing a similar structure the principle of the development is acceptable. It would preserve the Breamore Conservation Area and would be appropriate to the character and appearance of the listed building.

"Conditions are required to ensure the details are of an appropriate quality in this sensitive location."

Speaking shortly after the crash in December 2018 householder Paul Hammond said: “I heard a strange rumbling sound. Next thing there was a bang and rubble crashed into the hall.

“My main concern was for my wife, who was upstairs at the time of the crash.

“She was trapped because of the damage to the staircase. In the end, the firefighters had to take her out of a bedroom window.”

The lorry driver, believed to be a man in his fifties, was taken to hospital with minor injuries.