Land at Ethans Orchard, Middle Chedworth, Gloucestershire, GL54 4AL

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

• Whether the site is suitable for residential development, having regard to its location, the proposed land use and the amount of development, with particular regard to: whether the proposal would preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the Chedworth Conservation Area; the effect of the proposal on the landscape and scenic beauty of the Cotswolds National Landscape; and whether the proposal is suitably located having regard to the relevant development plan policies concerning residential development

What decided it

The harm to the Conservation Area and National Landscape, protected by Framework policies, provides a strong reason for refusal under paragraph 11d(i) that outweighs the benefits of housing delivery in the context of a shortfall in housing land supply.

The significant positive weight afforded to the provision of a self-build dwelling and limited positive weight to other associated benefits were insufficient to outweigh the great weight given to the harm to the Conservation Area and the failure to conserve or enhance the National Landscape; the Framework policies protecting these assets provided a strong reason for refusal that engaged paragraph 11d(i) and tipped the balance against the proposal.