Retrospective plans for a temporary chalet to house Ukrainian refugees have been refused by New Forest District Council.

Officials said the proposal didn't meet the specific criteria needed for building in the area, as the dwelling has been built as part of the Oak House estate in Hordle, Lymington, and used since September 2022.

The planning application was filed by Mr P Cross to "enable the cabin" to continue to be used as accommodation for "refugees fleeing from the war in Ukraine."

The home, which provides a bedsit with kitchen and bathroom, was criticised for being "substandard," failing to meet national space standards.

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Planners also highlighted that the development would negatively impact the landscape's character.

The introduction of a built structure in this location was deemed harmful to the countryside's visual amenities.

New Forest District Council also raised concerns about the development's impact on several conservation sites.

Recreational and air quality impacts on sites such as the New Forest Special Area of Conservation and the Solent and Dorset Coast Special Protection Area were deemed unacceptable.

The application had four responses from consultees, who were all in favour of accepting the chalet.