Petition launched to stop Mudeford Quay cottage demolition

More than 1,000 people have signed a petition to save a 300-year-old cottage on the Dorset coast after plans to develop it were approved.

Little Haven Cottage on Mudeford Quay, at the entrance to Christchurch Harbour, could be demolished and replaced by a three-bedroom house.

Christchurch councillors rejected the scheme in January, but their decision has now been overturned on appeal.

Campaigners launched an internet petition to save it on Monday.

Writing on the Change.org, external website, the group described the former wash-house as "picturesque, historical, inspiring and beautiful".

It is calling on Christchurch Borough Council and planning inspector Megan Thomas to reverse the decision.

In her decision, Ms Thomas wrote: "I find that the proposal would not unduly harm the character or appearance or significance of the Mudeford Quay Conservation Area or heritage assets near to it."

But posting on the campaign's petition page, Trish Merritt from Christchurch said: "There is no reason to demolish a building that helps to preserve the view of Mudeford Quay as we all know it.

"It will only provide a new house that no-one who needs a home could ever afford. Shame on whoever thinks otherwise."

During the meeting in January councillors were warned by council officers that the application was likely to succeed on appeal.

A previous application to demolish Little Haven Cottage was turned down in 2012 because it was not in keeping with the character of the area. An appeal also failed.