PRESERVING a conservation area is key for residents fighting the demolition of a unique house.

Despite recommendations by Richmond upon Thames Council planning officers that the application be approved, people are determined to fight the development at 16 Sheen Gate Gardens, East Sheen.

An application is currently before the council to demolish the house and build three one bedroom houses and six apartments on the site.

"We believe we have a very strong case for defending the conservation area. Is it or is it not?" asked John Bennett who lives opposite the property.

The building is within the Sheen Lane conservation area, designated in 2002.

"This is one of seven properties on the bend of the road all of the same age," continued Mr Bennett. "It is a very cleverly designed building put in to blend with the neighbours and flow round the corner of the road.

"The council have failed to understand the value the building has to the conservation area."

Residents believe the house has been allowed to run down since it was purchased by its current owners in 1998 and fear this may influence the council's decision.

Two previous applications by the developer have been dismissed by the planning inspectorate on appeal.

Should the development go ahead, neighbours claim they will face an overbearing, un-neighbourly building.

"In our view it is no good for the conservation area," said Anne Bridge who lives next door to the site. "The new proposal will cover more than three times the surface area of the present building."

Planning officers recommend approving the development, subject to conditions which include: restrictions on alterations, extensions and outbuildings, boundary fencing, landscaping and car and cycle parking.

A Richmond council spokesman said: "It would be inappropriate to comment prior to the committee meeting when a decision will be made after members take all views into account."