Campaigners and residents in Debden are celebrating after plans were rejected to build bungalows on farmland in the village.

The developer Ravendene Holdings appealed against the refusal of Uttlesford District Council's planning committee to allow nine bungalows to be built on farmland between Deynes Road and Thaxted Road.

There was strong opposition to the proposal from Debden Parish Council and residents, with more than 100 people lodging formal objections.

Chair of Debden Parish Council Stephanie Watson, district councillor Stewart Luck and a group of residents gave evidence at the appeal hearing in July.

They highlighted the harm the development would have on Deynes Farmhouse and the views of the historic property from footpaths, as well as the introduction of a one-way traffic system and a gate barrier to the site, noise and air pollution from traffic, added danger to pedestrians and the urbanisation of farmland.

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In refusing the appeal, the inspector focused on the harm to the farmhouse and loss of views of the building, which they found were not outweighed by benefits to the public.

The inspector also noted the proximity of public rights of way to the proposed site that enabled users to appreciate the countryside, and the urbanising effect the development would have on the rural nature of Deynes Road.

Ravendene's application for costs was also refused by the inspector.