Former England footballer Graeme Le Saux reportedly had his building plans thwarted due to the welfare of bats in his roof.

The 45-year-old is said to have originally submitted plans to build a new gym, study and playroom at his house in Cranleigh, Surrey.

However, council planners informed Le Saux that he is not allowed to make changes to his roof due to bats being a protected species, according to the Daily Star.

Reports have claimed that the ex-footballer instead opted to knock down a conservatory to build a new garage and boot room.