Plans for five independent living homes in Ludlow have been refused by councillors.
Social housing group Connexus had hoped to build the affordable terrace bungalows, plus communal garden and parking, on land off Sidney Road.
But they faced criticism from members of the South Planning Committee who opposed the design, and said it would lead to the loss of greenspace and a maple tree.
Deputy mayor of Ludlow, Colin Sheward, told the meeting the proposal would lead to the loss of important amenity space.
He said: “This land was part of the original plan for the estate as amenity land and it has functioned in that way for many years.
“It has fulfilled its function and still fulfils its function.”
Cllr Sheward commented of the lack of amenity space in Ludlow generally, adding: “We don’t want to lose greenspace, we want to keep greenspace and we feel this would be overdevelopment of this area.”
The meeting also heard from the three Shropshire councillors for Ludlow, including a letter on behalf of Councillor Tracey Huffer who said she was “appalled” by the proposal.
Members of the committee, who refused a similar proposal 12 months ago, backed their concerns.
Councillor David Turner said: “I think what tips this is the loss of greenspace and the loss of the tree.
“I certainly feel on the basis of the conversations so far that I will be voting against this.”
Councillor Nigel Hartin added: “I do remain concerns about the issue of design. The design given should, according to the national policy, should improve what has always been in place.
“Enough reasons have been put forward by the local members to refuse this application.”
Meanwhile, Councillor Gwilym Butler noted his disappointment that representatives from Connexus had not attended the meeting to speak in favour of supporting it.
He continued: “It would be interesting to know what demand there is for these homes. We need more information.”
All members voted against the plans, apart from Cllr Butler who chose to abstain.
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