PLANS to build 78 homes in Appleton Thorn have been refused following three years of campaigning.

Bloor Homes had initially planned to build 79 properties on the Stretton Road land but the scheme was reduced by one property last month.

Last night, Wednesday, the development management committee met at the Town Hall to discuss and vote on the application.

More than 170 objections and 39 letters of support were submitted from residents.

Campaign Against Ruining our Environment said the decision was 'so important' for the village.

Group chairman Alan Murray added: "We are absolutely delighted that the Bloor application to build 78 houses on our village field has been rejected.

"It is a result that we have worked together for three years to achieve.

"The turnout at the council meeting was incredible.

"I was so proud that so many people had braved the traffic and the weather, taken valuable time out of their busy lives, to show that they cared.

"In fact, there were far too many villagers to fit in the council chamber.

"That should leave no doubt how we feel.

"We do not want Appleton Thorn to lose its character and do not want a large development in the centre of the village.

"We want our village to be just that – a village."

Residents have been campaigning against Bloor Homes' proposals since the developer held public consultations about the plans in 2014.