A developer has lost its appeal against Kingston Council's decision to reject an application to build a three-storey residential home for the elderly in Surbiton.

Sunrise Senior Living appealed against the council's decision in July. It would have meant the demolition of five family homes on the edge of the Southborough conservation area in Surbiton.

But Government-appointed planning inspector Roy Foster ruled that the building was too bulky for the proposed site.

He said: "In my judgement the overall scale of the building on the appeal site goes well beyond what would complement a reasonably-defined transition zone. Rather, it is excessive in the context of its surroundings and would harm the setting of Southborough conservation area."

Secretary of the Southborough Residents' Association Owen Palmer said: "This really was one for all and all for one' as the residents' association, the council, the MP and both Liberal Democrat and Conservative councillors helped to win the case.

"Number three Langley Avenue is a delight and it would have been a shame to lose it."

The association is advising other residents' associations across the country who are opposing Sunrise schemes.