Land east of New Barn Farm Lane, Blendworth, PO8 0QG

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Whether the site is suitable for the proposed development, having regard to the countryside location and the development plan
• Whether the site is suitable for the proposed development, having regard to the accessibility of the site to local services and facilities
• The effect of the proposal on the landscape character and appearance of the South Downs National Park
• The effect of other considerations, including the need for gypsy and traveller accommodation and the personal circumstances of the occupiers on the overall planning balance

What decided it

The proposal's failure to conserve and enhance the landscape character, scenic beauty and tranquillity of the South Downs National Park, to which great weight must be given, outweighed the material considerations in favour of the scheme.

The unmet gypsy and traveller need, the appellants' personal need and the best interests of the children (afforded limited to significant weight) did not outweigh the great weight given to conserving the landscape and scenic beauty of the National Park and the resulting conflict with the development plan as a whole, tipping the balance against the grant of permanent or temporary permission.