CIVIC chiefs have rejected an application to retain a summerhouse that was built without planning permission.

The New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) has refused to support a retrospective proposal relating to an and-of-terrace property at Brookley Road, Brockenhurst.

Brockenhurst Parish Council had urged the NPA to approve the application.

The proposal also parked four letters of support from neighbours who said the summerhouse was made of environmentally-sourced materials and did not have a negative impact on neighbouring properties.

But a report to NPA members said the building's bulky roof and overall height was harming the character and appearance of the area.

"A lower, more traditional outbuilding in this prominent location, exhibiting high quality design, would be more appropriate."