A BID to overturn a planning decision preventing 50 homes being built in a Herefordshire village has been thrown out.

The man leading the opposition to the bid by David Wilson Homes at Bartestree says the news is "great for the village".

Cllr Dave Greenow said earmarked land off Williams Mead was the only remaining undeveloped field between Bartestree and neighbouring Lugwardine.

It was refused by Herefordshire Council's Planning Committee last March before an appeal was lodged by the applicant.

But in the past week a planning inspector has dismissed the appeal, meaning the many villagers who opposed it could celebrate.

The developers called the decision "disappointing" and said they would consult with stakeholders to consider their next steps. Cllr Greenow, however, was ecstatic.

"That land is the last remaining open space between the two villages," he said.

"The decision secures it and means it will be a lasting benefit to the area."

More than 90 letters of objection were sent to Herefordshire Council ahead of the initial Planning Committee hearing last spring.

One said the homes would “dominate and transform the notion of village life”.

Speaking after the rejection of the appeal, a spokesperson for David Wilson Homes said: “We are disappointed with the decision to dismiss our appeal to deliver much need housing in Hereford and will be meeting the relevant stakeholders to consider the options.”

Just last month, a separate plan by Bernard Eacock was granted permission for 40 homes on a separate site in Bartestree.

Part of the application included a field which will be handed over to Bartestree and Lugwardine Parish Council.