The government’s planning committee has turned down an application by the owner, Heron & Brearley Ltd to demolish the former Britannia Hotel, Waterloo Road, Ramsey.

The building, which has been empty for several years, is not registered but it is located within a conservation area.

The planners said: ’The proposal fails to protect or enhance the fabric and setting of the conservation area, nor would it preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the area. It is therefore judged to be unacceptable.’