Stroud housing plans decision upheld by High Court

The decision means development of land between Leonard Stanley and Kings Stanley can now go ahead

A decision to approve plans for up to 150 new homes on fields near Stroud has been upheld at the High Court.

Stroud District Council took action against a Planning Inspectorate's decision last July, after an appeal by developer Gladman was upheld.

The council had originally refused planning permission for new houses on Mankley Field between Leonard Stanley and Kings Stanley.

The authority said it was "disappointed" by the ruling.

A spokesman said: "We put forward a robust case throughout the proceedings in order to demonstrate the sensitivity and local importance of the Mankley Field site but unfortunately the court decision did not go our way.

"We are extremely disappointed, but despite this outcome, Stroud District Council will continue to do everything it can to prevent the inappropriate development of similar sites in the future."

Diane Odell, from campaign group Save Mankley Field, said she was "very, very disappointed" by the ruling.

She said the group was continuing to campaign for the land to be granted village green status, which could prevent houses being built.