One step closer

The other, similar, application to use the boathouse design was rejected.

Due to the size of the application it will appear before a special planning meeting on Tuesday November 11, but the Hampton Court Rescue Campaign, which was created in opposition to the proposal, have vowed to keep on fighting.

The meeting at Esher's Civic Centre saw over 100 people turn up to cheer and boo at statments from councillors, the applicants, and objectors.

One of the Molesey residents who was sitting in the public gallery, Jenny Belchamber, of Palace Road, East Molesey, said: "I think the decision was the wrong decision because if you look at the applications there are two and they are the same, apart from the difference in the hotel. They voted five against four, and regarding the applications, you can't say no to one and yes to another."

Another objector, Paul Gossage, from West Molesey, said: "I think the council have not looked at the wider national issues of this application. The site is one of the oldest places in the country and it could be ruined if this goes through. It will spoil the historic character of the area for the profit of Gladedale."

The HCRC took up a picket line outside the centre, with some banners saying 'Hands of Hampton Court,' and 'Keep Riverside Free from Public Access.'

The groups main objections were that the development would sully the view of the palace from the Molesey riverside, increase parking, and ruin the area for residents.

Roger Haile, from Hurst Road, East Molesey, said: "I think the decision is wrong because the councillors did not look at some of the major plans which will affect residents living nearby. We live nearby, and we are the ones who are going to be affected if the development goes through."

Charity Historic Royal Palaces, who look after Hampton Court Palace have also appealed to the Secretary of State to intervene and send the application to a public inquiry.

A spokeswoman from the organisation said: "The plea to the highest possible government authority is a last resort for Historic Royal Palaces who believe the historic setting of King Henry VIII's palace is under such great a threat, it will be blighted forever if planning permission by the local council is granted.

Molesey Residents' Association, the HCRC, and individuals are also appealing for the application to be made public.