PLANS to build more affordable housing in Alfrick have been dismissed on appeal.

Malvern Hills District Council's planning committee felt that two similar applications to build 10 new houses in Upper House Lane would have a severe impact on the appearance of the area, which is in a prominent position at the entrance to the village.

A planning inspector considered the intrusion of buildings, cars and `domestic paraphernalia' would detract significantly from an area of "high scenic value with wide ranging views to and from the surrounding countryside."

The committee also considered the site's location away from the village centre could lead to an increase in road accidents, with residents walking along a road with no footpath to get there.

The inspector reported the narrow road would present a danger for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and children. She also considered whether there was a genuine need for affordable housing in the area, and reported that eight new houses under construction in Leigh Road "Should meet some of the highest priority needs for affordable rented and shared-ownership housing" in Alfrick.

Peter and Carol Tebbit were members of a protest group formed when the original plans were submitted in 2004. Mr Tebbit, a parish councillor, said they were happy with the decision. "We are not against the idea of affordable housing," he said. "But we felt the Upper House site was in no way suitable, and it is comforting the inspector agreed with the concerns that residents in this part of the village expressed right from the start."

Applicant Gilbert Brooke declined to comment on the decisions.