Bognor Regis block of flats refused over bat harm fears

The scheme, proposed for 63 Annandale Avenue in Bognor, would have replaced an existing detached house and associated buildings with a new residential block containing nine self-contained flats.

But Arun District Council has rejected the plans after concluding that the development could pose a risk to roosting bats

The council said the applicant had not provided necessary ecological surveys to rule out "significant harm" to any potential bat roosts on the site.

The current detached dwellinghouse at the site (Image: Google)

The plans had also faced extensive opposition from residents, who had branded the development "unacceptably" oversized. 

Martin Day said: "The height and overall size of the proposed three-storey building appears out of keeping with the character of the surrounding street.

"I believe the development would have a significant visual and practical impact on the area."

He added that there were already regular traffic build-ups in the street and parking was "very limited".

Laima Duffield labelled the proposed building "completely our of proportion", while Scott Reed said it would be "larger, taller, imposing, and overbearing".

Bognor Regis Town Council also objected to the plans, describing the three-storey building as "an excessive form of development" that would appear "unduly dominant" in the street scene.

Applicant WSX2 Specialist Housing Ltd said the building had been "carefully considered and designed" to keep with the existing character of the area.

But the town council disagreed, labelling it "substantially larger". 

Citing several other grounds for refusal, the district council said the application also included insufficient drainage evidence and a lack of financial contribution towards measures to mitigate impacts on the Pagham Harbour Special Protection Area.

The developer has six months if it wishes to lodge an appeal.