A top planning inspector has dismissed a developer's appeal after their plans to redevelop an "eyesore" in the heart of North Cheam were initially rejected.

Home Group first proposed to build 88 flats on the site of Victoria House, located on the corners of London Road and Malden Road.

Amid opposition from more than 1,400 people, Sutton Council’s planning committee refused their application last April.

They appealed the decision to the Government’s Planning Inspectorate, with a hearing held earlier this year, but this has been knocked back.

READ: Developers appeal rejected plans for North Cheam 'eyesore'

In his report, published on November 6, inspector Brendan Lyons listed four main reasons which led to the appeal being thrown out.

These included the effect of the development on the “character and appearance” of the area, as well as the possibility of nearby residents being affected by “overlooking”.

He also highlighted concerns over whether it would “deliver the maximum viable provision of affordable housing”.

A hearing was held in July before the decision was made by the Planning Inspectorate this week.

READ: This North Cheam 'eyesore' is going nowhere after plans for 88 flats were knocked back

Nonsuch councillor James McDermott-Hill said: “We're pleased that the Planning Inspectorate listened to the considered arguments put forward by residents and local Conservative councillors at the appeal hearing in the summer against the proposed development for Victoria House.

"We now believe that it is incumbent upon the Liberal Democrat controlled Sutton Council to deliver a solution for the site that does not leave it abandoned for years to come, or else North Cheam will continue to suffer from economic neglect, frustrating residents and holding back Sutton's potential.”

Home Group has been approached for further comment.

You can read the report by clicking here and searching the reference APP/P5870/W/17/3188985.