A DEVELOPER hoping to demolish Hammersmith Palais and build 429 student flats and shops has seen its planning appeal dismissed.

London & Regional (Hammersmith) saw a planning application for the site, in 242 Shepherd's Bush Road, refused by Hammersmith & Fulham Council last November.

The council claimed the plans would have a negative impact on the Hammersmith Broadway Conservation Area, be noisy, have inadequate cycle parking facilities and would cause traffic problems.

Not happy with the decision, the developer took their case to the Planning Inspectorate in the hope of getting it reversed.

But Planning Inspector Terry Phillimore dismissed their appeal after a week-long public enquiry last month.

In his final report, Mr Phillimore said: "The proposal would represent a substantial change in the character and appearance of the Conservation Area as derived from the built form of this section of Shepherds Bush Road.

"There is no dispute that, in order to safeguard the amenity of the Conservation Area, conservation area consent should not be granted in the absence of an approved redevelopment

scheme."

The Hammersmith Palais opened as The Palais de Danse in 1919 and was used to host ballroom dancing and music and act as a dance venue up until it closed down in 2007.

H&F council are bracing themselves for an amended application for the site from London & Regional (Hammersmith).

A spokesman said: "It is likely, however, that the developer will submit an alternative application for the site in the near future."

London & Regional (Hammersmith) were unavailable for comment at the time of going to press.