CONTROVERSIAL plans for new flats on the site of the Co-op Pioneer store in Studley have once again been rejected because councillors decided the building would have overshadowed neighbours.

Members of Stratford Council's planning committee threw out the latest scheme for the corner of Alcester Road and High Street despite the recommendation of planning officers.

Councillors deemed the development of two one-bedroom flats, 14 two-bedroom flats, five three-bedroom houses and 33 car parking spaces to be unsuitable for Studley.

District councillor for Studley, Hazel Wright, said: "The block of flats were still taller than the original Co-op building and members felt it was the wrong thing for Studley to have."

Councillors repeatedly rejected the plans on the grounds they were thought unsuitable for the village, despite efforts by the Co-op's architects to redesign them.

Members expressed concerns about their design in relation to an historic building next to Barley Mow island.

Other worries included the amount of traffic pollution in the vicinity and its effects on residents.

A second scheme for six apartments at 90 Alcester Road was also refused at Thursday's meeting despite officers' advice to approve it.

"It was refused because it was not well enough designed for Studley," Mrs Wright added.

She said she was pleased with the outcome of both decisions.

"The residents were consulted on both these matters and their views have been upheld.

"We felt both developments did not have enough character for Studley," she added.