AN application to build a six-storey block of flats on Fish Strand Hill, Falmouth, has been turned down for the second time.

A planning inspector dismissed an appeal by Motorbalance Ltd and Patterson Development to build 44 sheltered flats on the site of the old cinema, in the town' s conservation area.

His decision followed a public inquiry into the appeal, after the initial application was rejected by Carrick district council.

Dismissing the appeal, planning inspector Colin Ball said: "I consider that a building of this size and bulk, in relation to its background, would be entirely out of place in this part of the town. I believe that the great height and mass of the building, relative to its townscape setting, would have an unacceptable impact on the essential nature of Falmouth and on views into and from the conservation area.

"In this respect the proposal would undermine the essential character of this part of the town."

Mr Ball said the block of flats, which was also set to incorporate a two-screen cinema, a warden' s flat and associated parking, would dwarf neighbouring buildings. "There has been no attempt to reflect the character of the surrounding landscape," he added.

The inspector' s decision will delight residents from Vernon Place and Smithick Hill, who had objected to the application at the inquiry in August.

In addition to the unsuitable appearance of the building, residents had also expressed worries about increased traffic and parking problems.