A BID to convert farm buildings at the listed Alfington Farm into housing was refused by district planners last week, because of a lack of services for would-be home owners. The owners wanted to convert the buildings into four homes but county highways

A BID to convert farm buildings at the listed Alfington Farm into housing was refused by district planners last week, because of a lack of services for would-be home owners.The owners wanted to convert the buildings into four homes - but county highways raised objections about the lack of infrastructure for any future homeowners.A spokesman said: "The site falls outside the built up area boundary for Alfington and this raises the question of sustainability of the proposal."Alfington lacks shopping, leisure and educational facilities with the nearest available services are at Ottery St Mary. From a highways point of view, the development is considered unsustainable."There were also concerns about the buildings, design and appearance, and a planning officer wrote: "No consideration has been given to the design of the proposed buildings or respect for their rural character."There were also concerns that the buildings would require 'substantial alteration'. They are classed as 'curtilage' and need listed building consent for any demolition, alteration or extension.