Planners have refused permission for a developer to build four new houses on the site of a former army barrage balloon camp, which is set to be demolished.

Site owner Clinton Lord applied for outline permission to build the new homes at Farmside, on a stretch of road between Boot Drift and Pear Tree Farm in Shotley.

He wanted four dwellings, new vehicular access and improvements to landscaping, following demolition of pre-fabricated building and associated ancillary buildings.

Babergh planners, using delegated power, rejected the proposals citing an unacceptable visual impact in a rural setting which would led to an 'incongruous development'.

Objectors had pointed to the concerns over safety on that stretch of road and planners were not satisfied that the proposed visibility display and access would comply with planning policies.

The planners were not satisfied that the demolition of the prefabricated building which has been used as a home until recently, but was formally part of a barrage balloon station during World War Two.

More than a dozen people objected to the plans, although many accepted there was a need to improve the site, welcomed the demolition of the old building, and would be more comfortable with a smaller scheme.

Objectors cited concerns over the safety of that part of the 40mph main road, including personal experience of a family member suffering life changing injuries following an accident near the site.

There were also comments regarding the flooding and drainage aspects.

Planners decided the harm would outweigh any benefits with this particular application.