A man who painted his home bright purple without permission has upset council planners.

Lorry driver Momcilo Djujic painted his cottage, a listed building on the corner of Launton Road and London Road, Bicester, bright purple with black trim and white woodwork.

Now planning officers at Cherwell District Council have told him he needs permission to change the exterior colour of a listed building in the town's conservation area.

The new colour scheme which has upset planners

Conservation officer Sally Stradling said: "He will need retrospective listed building consent for the colour change. Purple is an inappropriate colour for the age and character of a listed building.

"It's not a historic colour for the exterior and it is unlikely we would approve it."

The change could be referred to Cherwell's south area planning committee.

Town mayor Lawrie Stratford said: "It is an eye-catching colour, but it is unsightly in this area.

"Something more in keeping would be better, such as white or cream."

Council leader Norman Bolster said: "Mr Djujic has smartened up the building, but purple is too bright in the conservation area.

"Pale lilac might be more acceptable."

Mr Djujic, who changed the colour from light brown and cream, declined to comment.