CAMPAIGNERS have been celebrating a victory for common sense this week after proposals to build hundreds of homes on land on the outskirts of Chard were finally thrown out by the Government-backed Planning Inspectorate.

Appeals submitted by developers Mactaggart & Mickel and David Wilson Homes to build 460 properties in fields between Crimchard and Cuttifords Door, along with the relocation of Chard Town FC, were rejected by planning inspector Paul Griffiths.

It was three years ago when people first realised that plans were in the pipeline for a massive 450-home development to be built on their doorstep at Mount Hindrance Farm.

That application was later changed by Mactaggart & Mickel to 350 when David Wilson Homes entered the fray with its own application to build 110 properties on part of the same site at Crimchard.

Both applications were opposed by South Somerset District Council – backed by widespread opposition from people involved in the Mount Hindrance Action Group and the Cuttifords Door and District Residents’ Association.

They put together strong cases for objection when appeals were mounted by the developers which went to public inquiries held at the Guildhall in Chard last year. But it was not until last Wednesday (June 3) that the campaigners could pop open the champagne corks – with news that the two appeals had been dismissed by Mr Griffiths.

“You can imagine that local residents are absolutely delighted with that result, as are the many officials we have spoken to at South Somerset District Council, who we have supported all through this long and hard fought campaign,” said Alan Quantrell, of the Mount Hindrance Action Group.

Among the objections to the proposals were concerns about infrastructure, roads, services, employment opportunities and health and education facilities to meet such a large development.

Mr Quantrell added: “All through this time we have acknowledged the need for growth and expansion to regenerate our town and the Chard Regeneration Scheme will achieve that by promoting development in the right places.

“So, Rather than allowing development in inappropriate areas simply to satisfy profit generation, this is a victory for properly planned expansion that better serves the local community and meets both its current and future needs.”

Helen Lock, secretary of the Cuttifords Door and District Residents’ Association, echoed the sentiments of Mr Quantrell and said that people were thrilled at the decision of the Planning Inspectorate.