PLANS for a landmark development of shops, offices and flats on Swanage seafront have been refused by planners.

Purbeck District Council's planning board raised concerns about the massive size of the proposed building which would stand on a prominent site at Pier Head, High Street.

The application included 12 flats and maisonettes, a small row of shops and offices fronting the High Street, plus a restaurant and parking for 17 cars.

Cllr Colin Bright said: "A large number of people were there for our site visit and support for the project has been well orchestrated.

"The fact this site is almost derelict is not a reason to give approval come what may. Having had a chance to visualise the extent of the building and height, I do not think planning permission should be granted."

Cllr David Budd said: "Swanage Town Council has said creating such a large building would have a detrimental effect on a conservation area and views from the downs would be affected. This would virtually surround the Rookery which is a listed building."

He also said: "It's much too large and it lies outside the settlement boundary of Swanage and it's in an area of outstanding natural beauty. It needs to be on a smaller scale."

Cllr Julie Wheeldon said: "I'm not against the design and I don't think it is out of keeping. My concern is the corner of Encombe Road - the building comes too far out at that corner and I think that's what makes the whole site too heavy."

Members of the planning board went along with the recommendations of officers and voted against the application.

First published: October 29