THE saga surrounding controversial plans for a retirement village in North Yorkshire looks to have ended after inspectors upheld a decision to refuse planning permission.
Nigel and Judy Bell, who own Shepherd’s Purse Cheeses, near Thirsk, wanted to build the 60-acre Thornton Gate complex on land between Thornton Moor and South Otterington.
But the scheme, which would have had space for 150 residents, drew local criticism and Hambleton District Council turned down the application last year.
An appeal was subsequently lodged with the Planning Inspectorate, but has now been dismissed.
Planning inspector Andrew Poulter said: “The proposal would represent a large change to the landscape of the site and would affect it substantially.
“There would be benefits in terms of affordable housing, employment and provision of care for the elderly.
“However, it has not been demonstrated that a location in the open countryside is essential.”
Mrs Bell declined to comment on the decision.
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