A large extension planned for a home in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty at Hooke in west Dorset is being recommended for approval – despite worries from neighbours and the parish council.

Council officers are suggesting that the committee should approve the application.

Hooke Parish Council has 'significant reservations' about the proposals, claiming the development is too large for the plot and will result in a loss of privacy for neighbours. It is also worried about parking and the risk to the adjoining River Hooke, a grade 1 listed chalk stream.

The two-storey extension and a new garage, at Burnside, Rampisham Hill, will be voted on by the West Dorset planning committee on August 16.

Three letters of objection express similar concerns about privacy and overdevelopment, one alleging that the south facing elevation is out of proportion to the original cottage and will directly overlook Waterside House.

Councillors will be told that talks with the owners have resulted in a reduction in the size of the original extension resulting in officers now recommending the application be approved.

“The proposal is acceptable in principle and considered not to adversely impact neighbouring properties or the character of the surrounding area,” concludes the report.