Plans for 51 new bungalows have been rejected by councillors after 200 objections from residents and criticism from council officers.
The proposed new development in Coundon, County Durham, was condemned for the lack of affordable housing and poor layout and design.
Housing developer Mandale Homes hoped to convert the greenfield site, off Church Street, into a new bungalow estate. However, residents said local infrastructure would not be able to cope with the increased demand.
Durham County Council planning officers said the proposal’s poor design and housing mix would adversely impact the surrounding area.
But Mandale Homes refuted the claims that affordable housing is needed. A statement added: “We remain of the firm view that the development is not viable with affordable housing contributions, which is not unexpected for a scheme this scale.”
The meeting heard from local Cllr Charlie Kay, who spoke on behalf of the hundreds of objectors. He said: “We have an abundance of open space around the area for the people of Coundon to enjoy. We do need housing, but this is a greenfield site and it would be a tremendous loss were it to go.
“We don’t want it to be concreted over by a poorly thought out and poorly executed application.”
One objector told councillors: “Residents really do not want this site, they know the houses aren't needed, they know it’s not sustainable, and it’s most definitely in the wrong place.”
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In unanimously rejecting the proposal, planning committee members labelled the refusal a “no brainer”.
Cllr Sam Zair said: “It’s one of the easiest decisions I’ve ever had to make. It’s a very, very poor application.”
And highlighting the strength of the local opposition, cllr Joe Quinn added: “The local members don’t want it, the public don’t want it - it’s as clear as it gets.”
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