Plans for four new homes near Longridge refused by council

The application sought permission in principle for up to four dwellings on land adjacent to Daniels Farm in Preston Road, Longridge.

However, the council has ruled that the proposal would represent housing in an unsustainable location and would harm the character of the surrounding countryside.

In its decision notice, the council said future residents would be reliant on private cars to access services and facilities.

Planners concluded the development conflicted with both local and national planning policies.

The authority also found the scale of the proposal would be incompatible with its surroundings and would erode the rural character of the area.

The decision notice states that introducing up to four homes would have an unacceptable impact on the countryside setting.

The application had argued that the site represented a sustainable location for modest housing growth and could help address housing need in the borough.

Planning documents said the land formed part of the developed frontage along Preston Road rather than isolated countryside. However, those arguments failed to persuade the council.

One objector said they opposed "another batch of development" in the area, citing concerns about the loss of green space, increased pressure on services, and traffic congestion.

In refusing the application, the council said the proposal did not constitute sustainable development and that there were no amendments or conditions that could have made the scheme acceptable.