Plans to install six rapid electric vehicle charging stations have been rejected in Totton. 

Proposals for the new charging stations at Totton Retail Park have been dismissed due to concerns over its impact on the area's character and appearance.

The appeal was made by Rachael Kendrew of InstaVolt against New Forest District Council's refusal to grant planning permission.

The inspector noted the charging stations, along with a substation and metering box, would be "visually intrusive," particularly due to their prominent positioning in the car park.

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Any development would have also required the relocation of trees planted to soften the car park's presence, further affecting the area's character.

Despite acknowledging the Government's strategy to expand electric vehicle charging infrastructure, the inspector stated the benefits did not outweigh the development's negative impact on the local environment.

They added that the proposal conflicted with local policies aimed at maintaining environmental and contextual harmony.