PLANNING chiefs have rejected an application to replace a 200-year-old barn that was destroyed in an arson attack.

They condemned proposals to erect a concrete building on the site, next to a listed manor house in a conservation area.

The previous barn, at Charford Manor in Breamore, was wrecked when flames ripped through the building in December last year.

More than 60 firefighters tackled the blaze, which destroyed straw, hay and farm machinery - including two vintage Land Rovers.

Police believe it may have been the work of a serial arsonist responsible for a spate of farm fires in other parts of the New Forest, including Beaulieu and neighbouring East Boldre.

W S Harding & Son submitted an application to replace the Breamore barn with a new structure comprising concrete walls and cement roof sheets.

However, the application was rejected at a meeting of New Forest District Council's planning and development control committee.

Members said the "inappropriate design" would have an adverse impact on the appearance of the manor, a Grade II-listed building.

A report to councillors said: "Extensive landscaping would be required to ensure the building is appropriately screened within the countryside and the Breamore Conservation Area."

Pledged New Milton member Alan Rice stressed that the authority had earlier pledged to support the restoration of barns in the district.

"I find it difficult to reconcile the recommendation to refuse this application with our previous attitude.

"Agricultural use should have some support," added Cllr Rice.

Planning officer Chris Elliott said: "We support the restoration of historic barns but in this case the building was destroyed.

"The applicants want to replace it with a modern purpose-built utility building. We feel the design is inappropriate."

The applicants can lodge an appeal with the government's planning inspectorate, which has the power to overturn the decision.