LATTICED balustrading over a thriving Sidmouth seafront restaurant should be re-instated to give back the building some of its Regency character.

LATTICED balustrading over a thriving Sidmouth seafront restaurant should be re-instated to give back the building some of its Regency character. Sidmouth Town Council's planning committee has recommended to EDDC that it refuse retrospective plans to install new shop fronts, retain first floor balustrading and internal decorations at Mocha Restaurant in Prospect Place.Considering plans by brothers Nigel and Graham Stout on Wednesday, Councillor Frances Newth said: "I would like to see the Regency characteristic put back into this listed building.""This is a very sensitive building in a sensitive area and it is incumbent on us to hang on to as many features as we can," said Councillor Simon Pollentine, who said it was important the council's recommendation reflects the conservation officer's opinion on what is best to be retained.While sympathising with the owners for trying to bring a growing business into the modern age, Councillor Graham Liverton said: "This is a sensitive area and the guts of the whole building have been taken away."I think we should refuse this on the grounds of its listed features being taken away, and that is a great shame."I have sympathy with the business, but enough is enough."Councillors felt it would be easy to replace damaged balustrading with identical materials as had been done at Fortfield Terrace."I am concerned they have taken this action prior to consulting the conservation officer," noted Councillor John Dyson.The committee also wants a more sympathetically designed shop front.