AN appeal has been lodged after civic chiefs rejected an application to install two flagpoles outside 43 retirement flats.

The proposal, which related to Hubert Lodge in South Street, Hythe, was turned down by New Forest District Council last year.

A council report said: "The flagpoles would be 7m high and would be located in a prominent position.

"They would appear as highly visible features on the street scene, detracting from the character and appearance of the area and the setting of adjacent listing buildings.

"The flagpoles would appear harmfully intrusive and have an unacceptably over-dominant impact within this sensitive setting."

The applicant, Churchill Retirement Living, is hoping a government-appointed planning inspector will quash the council's decision.