The architect who designed Norwich's Castle Mall found himself at loggerheads with neighbours over a home extension - and city councillors have refused him permission to build it.

Michael Innes, who was also behind the revamp of Norwich Market, had asked Norwich City Council for planning permission at a home in The Moorings, by the river Wensum in the centre of the city.

He had applied to build a first floor extension to the side of the property, built on a balcony.

But people living in nearby Indigo Yard objected, saying it would overlook their homes and their communal courtyard.

They also said it would also be out of keeping in a conservation area.

John Walker, who lives in Indigo Yard, said: 'For this to be allowed in a conservation area would be a travesty.'

But Mr Innes said if the extension were to be built it would not 'get a second glance'.

He said: 'I bought the end one because I intended to live in it and I thought extending it would give me somewhere I could keep some books.'

Norfolk police had said it would create a covered area which would exacerbate anti-social behaviour.

But council officers, who had recommended approval, said a condition of a lockable gate could mitigate for that.

However, at a meeting of the city council's planning committee yesterday, councillors voted, by 10 votes to two to turn down the application.

Councillors, who visited the site yesterday morning, rejected the plans because of the impact in a conservation area.

• Are you battling against a planning application where you live? Call reporter Dan Grimmer on 01603 772375 or email dan.grimmer@archant.co.uk