‘Delighted’ campaigners are celebrating after plans for new homes were rejected amid fears of ruining the landscape.

Taylor Wimpey has been accused of making ‘speculative’ applications to build 60 homes off Stowey Road in Yatton in the wake of its planning failure.

Following an inquiry, the firm’s hopes have been dashed by the efforts of those keen to protect the countryside.

Steve Bridger, of No Moor Development, said planning inspector Mike Robins had made the right decision.

He said: “We’re delighted the inspector has dismissed Taylor Wimpey’s speculative proposals.

“We’ve consistently reminded North Somerset Council and developers there has to be a genuine conversation with communities about the scale, quality and location of housing and what infrastructure should underpin that development.

“There are proposals for housing in principle we support and other sites which are totally inappropriate that the community will continue to oppose.”

Taylor Wimpey put in a planning application for Stowey Road in August 2015 but its proposal won little favour.

After the council voted against it, Taylor Wimpey lodged an appeal and claimed its housing would make a positive difference to Yatton.

It said new homes would increase money spent in the village and provide jobs within the construction trade.

An appeal was heard in October and November where Taylor Wimpey and the council presented their cases. But at the start of the month Mr Robins ruled the development should not be permitted.

MORE: Funding for new £4million primary school in Yatton approved by North Somerset Council.

Mr Robins’ said: “I am not convinced (the applicant) properly recognises the role the site plays in the setting of Yatton and the transition from moorland to village, nor the contribution it makes to the public perception of setting from the road, the recreation ground and from the wider views.

“I accept in some cases these views are limited, such as from the wider footpath network, but note their importance particularly the close range views and those from Cadbury Hill.”

Mr Robins said Taylor Wimpey’s plan would harm the landscape and affect wildlife.

Taylor Wimpey has an identical 60-home Stowey Road plan which the council has yet to vote on.