PLANNERS have dashed hopes that hobbit-style homes could be built in the Hampshire countryside, by refusing the proposals.

Members of the Southern Area Planning Committee of Test Valley Borough Council deemed that the application by Michael Wigley and John Glasspool contradicted their planning rules.

The plans, designed by Portess and Richardson Architects, proposed three single-storey, four bedroom, homes be built on land to the North of Stockbridge Road, Timsbury. Their unique design used the ‘earth-sheltering’ building technique whereby the house is partially or wholly sunk into the site and then covered by soil. This allows the earth to provide insulation for the home, making it fossil fuel free, low carbon and a greener alternative to standard insulation.

However, regarding the reasons for refusal, planners noted: "The site is situated in a countryside location as defined by the Test Valley Borough Revised Local Plan 2016. The applicant has failed to demonstrate that there is an essential need for the proposed development to be located in the countryside contrary to policy COM2 of the Plan.

"In addition, both the number of units proposed (three), together with the merits of the development fail to satisfy paragraph 55 of the National Planning Policy Framework which is capable of comprising a significant material consideration. There are therefore no other material planning considerations of sufficient weight that would indicate that planning permission should be granted contrary to the development plan."

They added: "The proposed development would result in the creation of large, unnatural raised landforms on this gently sloping periphery valley floor site which would be visible from surrounding public vantage points and would be an alien feature in the surrounding landscape.

"The proposed development would also introduce built form on the northern side of the A3057 which would be at odds with the existing

character and appearance of this part of Timsbury.

"The proposals would therefore adversely impact on both the character and appearance of the surrounding area."

However, as reported, several local residents supported the plans and the need for more sustainable homes.

Paul Cadier, of East Wellow, said: “It is about time that reducing the environmental footprint of housing developments is taken seriously in the Test Valley. This is just the kind of project whose scale and content will get my support.”

Richard Bradshaw, of Romsey, added: “There is a real need in this country for developments that both address the need for more housing and are sympathetic to the environment - this development addresses both issues.

“I live nearby and am a regular visitor to the local area. I can see no reason why this development would negatively impact the area.

“It is creative and thoughtful proposal that would help the local council set a fantastic example to many others.