CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating after a controversial planning application that could have seen 100 new homes built in Bourton-on-the-Water was refused.

There was outcry in Bourton last month when developer Robert Hitchins Ltd submitted an outline planning application to build up to 100 homes on land off Station Road.

However, it was announced on Wednesday October 31 that the application had been refused by Cotswold District Council’s planning officers under delegated powers.

In a letter to the developer, CDC planning and development manager Kevin Field said the site was outside Bourton’s development boundary and would have a significantly negative impact on the village.

He added Robert Hitchins had not shown the development would not impact on wildlife and that there was no provision in the application for the inclusion of affordable housing in the development.

The letter also states there was no guarantee in the application of a contribution towards road and pedestrian access improvements, the village’s library and schools or open spaces that would be required if the development was to go ahead.

The refusal was met with joy from residents group Bourton Against Development (BAD), which has campaigned extensively against this and various other proposed developments in the village.

BAD spokesman Fiona Formby said the group was delighted by the decision, but was aware the developer may appeal against the decision.

“We have no doubt that the overwhelming response from the village also contributed heavily towards the outcome,” she said.

“Council officers seemed surprised that the village felt so strongly, but after the new development at Bourton Chase and the impending 368 home development at Upper Rissington, Bourton’s residents are fearful that the village just cannot support any further development and so they spoke – loudly, clearly and with passion.”

A spokesman from Robert Hitchins said the company was disappointed by the decision and was currently considering its next course of action.