The future of a Hampshire theatre space is in doubt after losing a planning appeal.

Titchfield Festival Theatre launched one last bid to keep the facility open.

But on Monday, the government planning inspectorate dismissed the appeal lodged against Fareham Borough Council’s enforcement notice.

The decision has left those at the theatre “broken-hearted”.

Kevin Fraser, Artistic Director and Chair of Trustees said: “The country will lose one of its greatest community arts assets and Shakespeare must be turning in his grave.

“In light of this decision, I will speak to our trustees and fully evaluate the outcome before commenting further.

“In the meantime however, we’d love to see you at what will possibly be the last show in the Arden theatre – Made in Dagenham.

“But remember we still have the Oak and Acorn theatres which will continue our great tradition of brilliant art and drama for our community ”

The council argued the 450-seat Arden theatre at the site in St Margaret’s Lane was opened without planning permission.

This was disputed by the charity and a legal battle ensued to retain the space.

The theatre was issued with the enforcement notice at the end of last year.

Speaking on the decision, inspectors said: "There is conflict with the development plan as a whole in terms of the suitability of the location for the development with regard to its accessibility, harm to the vitality and viability of the Borough’s centres and parades, and harm to highway safety through inadequate parking provision.

"When all the benefits are considered, this does not outweigh the conflict with the development plan as a whole."

The theatre has months to comply with the decision.

During the public inquiry held in May, a council planning expert said the theatre should not stay open because it is harming the local area.

Stephen Jupp, from Fareham Borough Council, said the development was clearly in conflict with planning policies.

But supporters argued the loss of the space would be “devastating” for residents.