An Isle of Wight hotel's attempt to expand has been dealt another blow after the planning inspectorate dismissed an appeal.

Garden Isle Hotels, the owners of Shanklin's Luccombe Manor, were hoping to extend the clifftop retreat to meet increased demand.

It sought to add a 10 bedroom extension and build three new bedrooms on the ground floor of the Popham Road premises.

Citing its 'visually dominant' and 'intrusive' appearance, plans were refused by the Isle of Wight Council for a third time in January.

A subsequent appeal has now been turned down by the planning inspectorate, following a visit to the site on August 6.

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Although admitting the extension would benefit local business and tourism, it was found the proposal would have a "harmful effect on the character and appearance of the host building and of the area".

"This harm would be long lasting and would be contrary to the design aims of the framework", the inspectorate ruled.

The inspector said the proposal would connect to the existing two-storey flat roofed extension and, due to its considerable length and height, it would "overwhelm" the original manor house.

In conclusion, the inspector said: "The proposal conflicts with the development plan and the material considerations do not indicate that the appeal should be decided other than in accordance with it.

"For the reasons given above the appeal should be dismissed."