A TOP trainer has failed to persuade planning officers he should have permission for satellite stables and a manager’s dwelling in Chester's countryside.

Donald McCain, whose father Ginger died on Monday, told Cheshire West and Chester Council he was hoping to build the stables, for 15 horses, on land at Shay Lane, Hampton.

The application included a three bedroomed bungalow to provide accommodation for a manager.

His main stables are at nearby Bankhouse on the Cholmondeley Estate and planning officers were told existing satellite stables would be lost due to a lease expiring.

At an earlier stage, the plans were not opposed by parish councillors but a neighbour objected.

For Mr McCain, agent Mr Robert Holmes said the present facilities were inadequate particularly for the care of injured or sick animals.

A house close to the stables was necessary for security purposes. The horses would be valued at up to £250,000, according to a report.

Principal planning officer Steve Lewis reminded councillors the application had been deferred in May to enable Mr McCain to demonstrate the lease would not be renewed.

“No such evidence has been submitted,” he said.

Agent Mr Robert Holmes agreed ‘the outstanding issue is evidence to demonstrate the present lease of Scotch Farm may not be renewed’.

He added: “Lord Cholmondeley is not willing to put into the public domain private letters between himself and his tenant.

“The lease has expired and there is no guarantee of any renewal. There would be no problems for the neighbour.”

Chairman Cllr Ralph Oultram (Con) moved refusal and the committee voted unanimously to reject the application.

See pages 8-9 for tributes to horse racing legend Ginger McCain.