Plans to build up to three homes on a field off Barston Lane in Catherine-de-Barnes have been refused by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC).

The application, submitted by Angela Maddy, sought "permission in principle for up to three dwellings" on a grassed field off Barston Lane.

In supporting documents, the applicant argued the site was suitable for housing, stating: "The site is a grassed field.

"These are not 'priority habitats'.

"Furthermore, the proposals will not have any adverse impact on any designated sites."

The planning statement also said it was "highly unlikely" the development would impact protected species and argued the scheme would bring economic and social benefits to the area.

It claimed the homes would help "support and foster a strong and vibrant community" and meet housing demand in the borough.

However, council officers concluded the proposal failed to satisfy the key permission in principle considerations of location, land use and amount of development.

The application attracted three objections from residents, who raised concerns over green belt loss, the impact on the rural character of Barston Lane and the site's accessibility.

SMBC's highways team also objected to the plans.

In its assessment, the Local Highway Authority said the site was in a "predominantly rural area where access to day-to-day services and facilities is limited".

Officers noted the nearest bus stops were around 1.6km away and that pedestrian routes lacked footways, street lighting and safe crossing facilities.

The highways report concluded that future residents would be "heavily reliant on private car use for day-to-day journeys", resulting in "unsustainable travel patterns and an increase in vehicular movements".

In its final recommendation, the council said the site was "not located in an accessible location" and that three dwellings would represent "an unacceptable amount for the site", resulting in "urbanisation and overdevelopment".

The application was formally refused.

To view the full application, click here.