A TOWN pensioner's battle to change the status of her town centre property has failed at the final hurdle.

Wychavon District Council's refusal of a bid by Nellie Copson to turn her High Street premises from retail to residential has been upheld by the Government's planning chiefs.

Miss Copson does not want to pay business rates on the disused shop next to her family home.

The 83-year-old says the property is not suitable to rent for retail use because it does not have a toilet and is very small.

The spinster and her supporters hoped a change of use would put an end to many years at loggerheads with Wychavon over business rates which Miss Copson has refused to pay.

The council instigated bankruptcy proceedings this year to recoup unpaid taxes but previously Miss Copson's defiance has landed her behind bars.

Following an informal hearing in September, the Planning Inspector ruled that if allowed, the proposal would be detrimental to the vitality and viability of the primary shopping frontage and contrary to the Local Plan.

Arguments raised by Miss Copson's agent, Ron Waters, relating to Human Rights legislation were also dismissed.

Wychavon's planning chief, Jack Hegarty, said the ruling vindicates the council's clear stance on Miss Copson's application.

"The inspector acknowledged the fragile nature of the local retail economy but considered that retail use continues to predominate the end of the High Street.

"There's no reason to make an exception in Miss Copson's case."

Miss Copson told the Advertiser: "There is too much going on at the moment, I'm afraid I really can't comment."