PLANNERS have thrown out controversial proposals to build around 125 homes on a field in Stourport.

An application to build up to 125 properties on land known as the Snipes at Areley Common in Astley Cross had been submitted to Wyre Forest District Council.

The plan, by Severn Valley Sand and Gravel Co Ltd, sparked a storm of protest from people living nearby who were concerned about the impact on traffic, services and the countryside in Stourport.

Concerned residents also set up a “Save Our Snipes” Facebook page which has prompted much discussion about the issue.

And councillors sitting on the authority’s planning committee met on Tuesday (July 19) and upheld officer John Baggott’s recommendations to refuse the application.

The land in question falls under both Wyre Forest and Malvern Hills District Council, whose own planning committee also rejected the application at a meeting earlier this month.

The applicants said that around 40 per cent of the 125 houses would have been affordable housing while there would also have been provision for care apartments, public open space and a children’s play area.

In his report, Mr Baggott said both authorities have been able to demonstrate that they had a five year housing land supply plans.

He also said the plans had failed address how surface water from the development would be adequately drained and insufficient information had been submitted regarding the likelihood of impacts on protected species such as bats, Great Crested Newts, reptiles and breeding birds.

He added: “The development would result in a substantial adverse change to the character and appearance of the area and would fail to enhance this valuable landscape.”