Stroud planners reject homes development in Slad Valley

Helium-filled balloons were used at the height of the proposed homes to help experts assess the plans

Controversial plans to build homes in a protected part of Gloucestershire have been rejected by councillors.

Barratt Homes wanted to build 48 properties at Wades Farm in the Slad Valley, Stroud, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty.

Stroud District Council received more than 800 objection letters and at a planning meeting on Tuesday all members agreed to turn down the proposals.

Ralph Hawkins from Barratt Homes said the firm planned to appeal.

'Over the moon'

Elaine Barwell, from the Save Slad and Uplands from Development action group, said: "We are absolutely over the moon.

"We were nervous before the meeting, but the weight of evidence put forward by planners was read by the council who came back with the decision of rejecting it - so we're very pleased."

In June, planning officers used five helium-filled balloons to judge the height and potential impact of the proposed homes.

Residents took photographs from where they lived and sent them to the local authority.

Mr Hawkins said: "We are disappointed our application for planning was refused. We believe we can satisfy most of the points raised today prior to appeal.

"There is a shortage of family homes in this area for local people to live in and the proposed development will help tackle the problem."

The plans had included allotments, parking and play spaces, wild flower meadows and a community orchard.