ONE of Britain’s richest men is to think again over plans for a luxury mansion on the Hampshire coastline.

Jim Ratcliffe’s application to build a multi-million-pound retreat overlooking the Solent has sparked almost 40 objections, including protests from leading conservation groups and Lord Montagu of Beaulieu.

Now the former billionaire, founder of the INEOS chemical company, has decided to scrap the proposal and submit a revised scheme.

Daniel Wiseman, of planning agents Turley Associates, confirmed that the New Forest National Park Authority (NPA) would receive a new application that aimed to overcome the objections.

Referring to the outcry over the previous plan he said: “We were grateful for the comments. We’re going to review those and make amendments.”

Campaigners hope the rethink will result in a less obtrusive scheme.

For the full story and reaction see this weekend's Daily Echo