A self storage chain based in Heathcote has seen its expansion plans blocked by the district council.

Titan Self Storage had applied for planning permission for two three-storey extensions at its Heathcote Industrial Estate site, which it said are needed to meet current market demands.

The company, which has 10 locations nationwide, said the new builds would have increased its floor space by 70 per cent.

But Warwick District Council's planning department has thrown out the plans, saying they would need too many trees to be cut down.

"It is therefore considered that the southward and eastward extensions proposed would result in a significant negative impact on the character of the area through greatly reducing the existing screening of the employment buildings," a council report said.

"The supporting documentation provided is unclear on the number of existing trees which could be retained on the south boundary."

The council’s tree officer also raised objections to the "extreme and disproportionate" number of trees that would need to be removed.

The application did include some tree planting, but the council said this would "take years to mature and provide an effective screen".

Plans show the scheme would have made space for another 17 storage units through the rear and side extensions.

The application added: "It is clear from experience that a modern self-storage centre will cater for both domestic users and small businesses. 

"Although a majority of customers tend to be private individuals, self-storage centres do have an important role in catering for small and expanding businesses. 

"For example, a small industrial business, by freeing up space used for storage in its own premises, can maximise operational efficiency and accommodate additional staff."

See the full application here.