PLANS to build 48 homes at Wades Farm in the Slad Valley have been rejected by Stroud District Council.

A sense of relief was felt by many who campaigned tirelessly since January to stop the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty from being developed by Barratt Homes.

Members of the Save Slad and Uplands from Development group were concerned about the impact on the environment and the potential increase in traffic on Slad Road, Vatch View, Swifts Hill View and Folly Lane.

Among the recommendations for refusal put before SDC’s Development Control Committee, which made its decision at Ebley Mill this morning, Tuesday, were the development’s ‘harmful effect on the character and appearance of the landscape’ and concerns over the design of parking facilities and access routes.

The potential for Roman and prehistoric finds on site and its effect on badger habitats were also cited as reasons for blocking the project.

Barratt Homes had hoped to provide some 14 affordable houses within the family development, which compelled the committee to weigh up the need for more homes with any impact on the environment.

It concluded in its report that the Wades Farm site is a ‘critical element of this unspoilt valley.’ In January, Avril Baker Consultancy held a public consultation on behalf of Barratt Homes to ask whether people would support development of the southern part of Wades Farm, with 101 people objecting and just nine approving.

SEE TOMORROW’S SNJ FOR MORE ON THIS STORY.