London's Hackney Council has rejected a planning application for an £18.9m redevelopment project at the Geffrye Museum.

The museum, which examines the changing face of middle class homes in England over the past 400 years, appointed David Chipperfield Architects to increase its capacity, which it says is stretched to the limit.

The plans included a two-storey extension, new gallery, library, collections and archive stores, conference suite, restaurant, and a new entrance opposite Hoxton Station and a garden gallery.

Part of the project involved a controversial plan to demolish the former Marquis of Lansdowne pub.

Museum director David Dewing said the museum was "bitterly disappointed" their application had been declined and that they were now considering their options carefully.

He said prior to the council's decision the pub, which the museum bought in 1996, was considered by English Heritage to be "at best of moderate significance".

"It would require invasive and costly works to restore it; and would not resolve the critical issues of access, security and circulation."

Image: David Chipperfield Architects