PLANNERS at Cotswold District Council were congratulated for the role they played in successfully defending the refusal of permission to build up to 69 homes on the much loved Humpty Dumps. 

The planning application was refused planning officer on the grounds that the development would harm the character and appearance of the Special Landscape Area and the setting of the town. 

The developer, Baylight Properties, appealed to the Planning Inspectorate, pointing out that their plans would create a number of affordable homes and open market homes.

Following a three day inquiry between Tuesday, July 26 and Thursday, July 28, planning inspector Jonathan Clarke concluded on on September 12 that the council’s reasons for refusal were sound and he dismissed the appeal.

Commenting on the outcome, Cllr Mark Harris, mayor of Cirencester and district councillor for Abbey Ward, said: “This is great news for residents in Cirencester who have been concerned about plans to develop the Humpty Dumps site, and it is also a marvellous result for our planning team who deserve a huge pat on the back.

"The officer who was delegated to make the original decision supported her arguments very well indeed.

"When the decision went to appeal, colleagues in the same team prepared an excellent case to demonstrate the plus points of retaining the Humpty Dumps open space, and they have been praised by members of the public for their contributions during the Inquiry."

CDC Cabinet Member for Planning Services, Cllr Mark MacKenzie-Charrington, added: “For over twenty years local residents have been engaging with the planning process to ensure this valued piece of land has been protected from development.

"It is great example of the outcome of positive engagement by the local community with the local planning authority.

“This decision sounds out a warning that we can resist unsustainable development in the Cotswolds and I believe that we will be in an even stronger position when the Local Plan is finally approved.”