Proposals for 15 bungalows in Newton Poppleford were turned down when planning chiefs took issue with their impact on the countryside and an important habitat.

Six of the homes in Down Close would have been classes as ‘affordable’ and there would have been nine garages and 18 parking spaces.

But East Devon District Council (EDDC) officers said the location, on the edge of the village, means the occupants would have had to walk excessive distances to reach amenities, on sub-standard roads.

They said the development would fail to preserve the scenic beauty of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a traditional orchard that is designated as a ‘priority habitat’ and is home to a variety of species.

The officers added that, despite the need for housing, and ‘affordable’ homes in particular, the costs of the development outweighed the benefits.

Considering the application, parish councillors said the housing need was already being addressed by a 40-home development off King Alfred Way, which won outline planning approval in May.

Permission for the application was refused by EDDC’s development management committee.