'˜Too bulky' luxury Hayling home plan is refused

Ray and Margaret Stewart, whose property the house would have overlooked, had launched a campaign to stop the development.

They feared it would block out all the natural light to their seafront property, in Ferry Road, Hayling, which they themselves overcame objections to build a decade ago. And there were more than a dozen objections to the plans, which were submitted by a family who currently live in Spain.

It would have seen a small bungalow demolished and replaced with a luxury modern home with up to five bedrooms.

The owners had agreed to improve sea defences.

But the planning committee of Havant Borough Council refused the application on the grounds its bulk would have an ‘overbearing impact’ on the Stewarts’ property, causing a loss of light and privacy because the living quarters were on the first floor.

Mr Stewart made it clear that he is not against the development of the site, but believes the property should be within the footprint, in scale and height, of his own.

He added: ‘We’re relieved.

‘The architects took little notice of the planning officers’ guidance that it should be within the footprint of our property and, luckily, the planning committee saw through this and saved us from this blot on the unspoiled western tip of Hayling Island.

‘Councillor Andy Lenaghan stood by us throughout this ridiculous application.

‘His help, guidance and advice was exceptional.’

Ferry Road has a mix of old and modern homes.

The architects argued the property would have been an asset to the area, which is opposite the Ferry Boat Inn.

Cllr Lenaghan said: ‘I’m not against a development there, but I hope they come back with something more suitable in respect of the neighbours’ amenities, especially the reduction in light to their property.

‘I am relieved for Mr and Mrs Stewart who would have had a dramatic change to their environment by such an overly dominant, bulky, development.’