A DECISION to refuse plans to replace a bungalow in Farnhill with a terrace of three new homes has been upheld by a government planning inspector.

Objectors responded with applause earlier this year after the plans for Fairmount in Starkey Lane, was refused by Craven District Council’s planning committee - despite it being recommended for approval

A planning inspector has now agreed with the council and dismissed the appeal by Elliot Exley, and in addition refused his claim for costs against the council.

The inspector concluded that the development would ‘significantly harm the character and appearance of the site and the conservation area’ and would also ‘significantly harm’ the living conditions of the occupiers of a nearby property.

Cllr Andy Brown, ward member for Aire Valley and Lothersdale, said: “I am overjoyed that the appeal decision has backed the views of over 200 people who raised objections. A modest development on this land would have been accepted with good grace by many. Excessive out of character development that badly overlooked other people’s homes was opposed tooth and nail by some very well organised and determined people.

“I could not be more pleased for them that they have proved that ordinary people can fight back and win despite the system being stacked against them. It remains fundamentally wrong that a developer can appeal against rejection but a citizen cannot appeal against acceptance.”