A PROPOSAL to build 50 homes in Bartestree has been turned down by planners.

David Wilson Homes (Mercia) Ltd wanted to build the properties - which include 18 affordable homes - on land near Williams Mead.

More than 90 letters of objection were submitted to Herefordshire Council by residents, who were concerned that that development would "dominate and transform the notion of village life."

Councillor Dave Greenow, ward member for Bartestree, told the council's planning committee today that the proposed development site is the only remaining undeveloped field between the two district villages of Lugwardine and Bartestree.

He said that the he development 'clumped' together the affordable homes in one section, which was 'unfair' and 'unjust'.

Councillors unanimously refused the application.

There will be more on this story in next week's Hereford Times.