A homeowner is appealing after his plan to demolish a garage and build a new house was rejected.

The appeal, by Mr McDonagh, was launched on January 15 and is against New Forest District Council's decision to deny planning permission for the development at 159 Ringwood Road, Totton.

The council refused the application because the new house would look "cramped and intrusive" and wouldn't fit with the surrounding area, particularly because it would be on a small plot with a different style to other homes nearby.

The council also pointed out that the house wouldn't match the distance other houses have from the road, and its design, including a gabled roof, wouldn't be in harmony with the hipped roofs of neighbouring houses.

Another concern was the impact on the environment.

The council said the new development could increase recreational and air quality pressures on several sensitive nature conservation sites, including the New Forest Special Area of Conservation and the Solent and Southampton Water Special Protection Area.

The council's decision was based on plans that included a site location plan, a block plan, and proposed floor and elevation drawings.

The appeal will be handled through written representations, following a specific procedure set out in the Town and Country Planning (Appeals) (Written Representations Procedure) (England) Regulations 2009.

This regulation allows for an appeal to be made to the Secretary of State when planning permission is refused by the local authority.

A final decision will be made by the government-appointed Planning Inspector after the hearing.

Representations must be received by February 19.