A Government planning inspector has thrown out plans to put up 63 homes next to a golf club on the edge of Market Bosworth, in west Leicestershire.
Richborough Estates wanted to develop two fields near Kyngs Golf and Country Club, on the outskirts of the market town which is famous for its proximity to the Battle of Bosworth where Richard III was defeated.
Hinckley and Bosworth councillors initially refused the plans last May, over concerns they would spoil an area of open countryside.
The developer then appealed the decision but government inspectors have now also turned down the complex, because it would be “highly visible” along Station Road and would fundamentally alter the character of the area.
The appeal decision also said that the 10.4 acre development would spoil views of an exposed nearby wooded hilltop.
When the plans were previously considered by the council, several councillors warned it would go against the Market Bosworth Neighbourhood Plan, which includes policies to protect the character of the area.
Concerns were also raised that noise from a nearby engineering firm would be audible to the new homeowners.
Previous plans for 65 homes on the site in 2014 were granted on appeal, but work never began.
An application was also filed for 64 homes in 2015, but that was refused.
Residents of Market Bosworth were sent consultation leaflets about the plans, with 108 responses received.
More than one third of residents said they were supportive of bungalows, smaller homes and affordable homes being built in the area.
In May 2020 plans were approved to re-open the disused golf course with a new clubhouse and a holiday complex, including six cabins.
