PLANS to build a power station with 22 gas generator engines and 11 transformers near the village of Haselor have been refused.
The site, on the Temple Grafton side of the A46 Alcester to Stratford Road, would have sat behind a four metre high sound barrier and security fencing.
The application went in earlier this year and it immediately sparked protests from nearby residents who started a petition to have the plans thrown out on the grounds it was totally inappropriate development in a rural setting.
It was refused by Stratford District Council officers under delegated authority based mainly on the reports of consultants on the impact such a development would have on the landscape and the visual harm it would cause.
In addition objectors had raised concern about increased traffic on the A46, already a fast and dangerous road, particularly at the crossroads which would give access to the site.
They also said it would be an eyesore with several chimneys visible while the site itself was a designated Special Landscape Area.
District councillor Mike Gittus opposed the plan from the outset saying when the plan was lodged and welcomed the refusal.
He said: ” This is a great relief to the local communities that I represent, and a welcome decision to the tens of thousands of walkers and visitors who enjoy the beautiful rural settings of the Arden landscape area.”
His colleague Coun Sue Adams added: ” I am pleased the consultants have agreed with the views of the local people that this location is not appropriate.”
