Improvement plans for the Haven House Inn at Mudeford Quay including a new roof for an outdoor seating area has been refused planning consent.
A planning case officer says he proposal would cause ‘harm’ to the Mudeford Quay Conservation Area.
The business had asked for an aluminium framed and glazed retractable roof system for the existing terrace area to south-west of the main building, covering an area of around 45 square metres.
It had also asked for a single storey pitched roof extension to create a store to south-east of the Inn.
The application, from the Christchurch Catering Co. Ltd, said the new roof would be fitted with glazing on two sides and would be finished in powder coated aluminium, adding to the comfort of customers, the new store benefitting the business by providing extra room.
Christchurch Council had been consulted on the proposals but had not responded to BCP, who made the decision.
The unitary council’s conservation officer said The Haven area was already “swamped” by a range of extensions.
“The enclosure of the terrace is not supported – as well as overwhelming The Haven, it would impinge on the view through to the listed building beyond,” said the report, adding: “I fail to see either element would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area. I also consider the work would further erode the character of the building, detracting from its significance as a building of local importance and presenting harm to the conservation area at this point.”
Said the planning case officer in a decision statement: “The proposed glazed awning, by reason of its materials, siting and design, will result in harm to the significance of the locally listed building and to the Mudeford Quay Conservation Area…
“The proposed store extension, by reason of its siting and design, will result in an awkward juxtaposition in relation to the existing extensions to the cafe and unbalancing the existing arrangement of extensions to the building.
“The proposals are therefore considered to result in a poor form of development which would result in harm to the character and appearance of the Mudeford Quay Conservation Area.”