Outline plans to demolish a barn and outbuildings to make way for six new homes in Ibstock, have been rejected by North West Leicestershire District Council.

Full planning permission, as part of a hybrid application, for single and two storey extensions and alterations to 139 and 141 High Street, was also refused.

An application from Mr Keith Baxter, of Market Bosworth, was made in March.

The council said the outline planning permission was refused because the proposal would be contrary to the Local Plan, as it is not a form of development supported in the countryside - and it is considered that significant harm would arise from the granting of permission.

It added that the proposal would also result in significant harm to the character and rural appearance of the locality and would appear as an "unwarranted and incongruous intrusion into the countryside".

As a consequence of this, it was said that the development would fail to protect or enhance the natural environment.

Therefore, the outline proposals would also conflict as they require that decisions should recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside.

The proposed plan for the site in Ibstock, near Coalville. Image: Haywards Architects

A council officer's report adds: "Several plots would appear cramped within a constricted plot, resulting in overdevelopment which would not appropriately respect the density of the area.

"The development would not be in keeping with the character of the area, which is largely defined by spacious linear gardens.

"The proposal would therefore erode local distinctiveness. As such the scheme fails to reflect the established pattern of development locally, undermining the character of the area, and fails to make a positive contribution to the character of the surrounding area.

"It would also result in the urbanisation of the site and physical intrusion into the countryside, which would diminish its present open and rural character and contribution to the rural character and visual amenities of the area in particular along Overton Road and in views from the public footpath.

"As such it would be an incongruous encroachment into the rural environment and would result in an adverse impact on the character and visual amenities of the rural environment and locality."