AN INSPECTOR has backed Bournemouth council’s decision to refuse planning permission to replace Southbourne Conservative Club with four new houses and a block of seven flats. The application sparked 79 letters of objection, including a petition signed by six people, mostly from those unhappy about the loss of the Conservative club.

Senior planning officer Simon Gould had recommended that the scheme should be approved, stating that the proposals had sought “to make a more efficient use of the land”.

But members of the planning board said there were four reasons for refusing the application submitted by Sarjanda Ltd for Harcourt Road.

Councillors rejected the plan because they said it was over-development, congested development, out of character for the area and because of the impact on residential amenities.

Dismissing an appeal, planning inspector Michael Hetherington said he shared some of the council’s concerns.

He added: “I conclude that the area’s character and appearance would be unacceptably harmed.”

The inspector also concluded that “the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers would be unacceptably harmed”.

He added that the scheme’s parking arrangements would be adequate and that a contribution would not be required for transport improvements.

“However, these factors are outweighed by my conclusions in respect of the unacceptable harm that would result to the area’s character and appearance and to the living conditions of neighbouring occupiers and the adequacy of the living conditions for the scheme’s intended residents. These are compelling objections.” The inspector ordered that the council should pay part of the costs of the appeal proceedings.