A MINI-HOUSING estate can't be built on the last undeveloped site in a conservation area.
Borough planners kicked out the scheme for 10 homes with associated works on half an acre of land next to Cherry Brow Farm in Willaston.
Applicant WF Gee Construction had told the council the houses would be reached by a new road and junction off Hadlow Road.
There would be two pairs of semi-detached homes at the front of the site with three further pairs of semis along the access road.
Willaston Residents & Countryside Society said that, while efforts had been made to make the development look presentable, it did nothing to enhance the conservation area. And they were concerned about road safety at the proposed junction.
Council conservation officers said the houses were to be built on 'quite a small pocket of land' which would detract from the rural character of the village.
Objector Ms H Saunders, speaking on behalf of residents, said gardens would be overlooked, and there would be the loss of daylight and increased noise.
She described other aspects of the development as 'unbearable' and argued it would affect Cherry Brow Farm, which dates back to the 18th century.
Planning officers said that, as the borough could meet its housing supply up to 2011, the release of further land for new housing in the Neston area should be resisted.
Cllr Myles Hogg (Con, Willaston & Thornton) said: 'This is a very straightforward case for refusal.'
Committee vice chair Cllr Angela Claydon (Lab, Rivacre) said: 'This is a totally inappropriate development.'
The committee said the scheme would have an adverse effect on the character and appearance of that part of the Willaston conservation area and there was inadequate space between the proposed properties and neighbours.
