Investment banker Richard Pease wants to demolish his fire ravaged £2.1 million mansion and build a new one.

The wealthy hedge fund manager has submitted plans to knock down the 10-bed manor house destroyed by a mystery fire in April.

Surveyors say although some of the external walls are still standing and the facade could be retained, the tight site would make it difficult to rebuild.

Demolishing the upper floors would require extensive scaffolding and large cranes.

"It is considered the most practical option is to demolish and rebuild from the ground," they wrote in a letter to the Forest of Dean District Council.

The new manor would look almost the same, but a protruding bay would be set back and the house moved slightly to the left. Parking spaces would double from four to eight.

Archaelogical expert Charles Parry has urged councillors to check with the experts before allowing the demolition of one of the Dean's most prominent heritage building which provides the backdrop to an important medieval church.

The parish council will discuss the plans on January 18.