Stallion Properties Ltd had wanted to build two blocks of flats –– each housing 18 apartments, as well as one parking space per property –– on Kirk Drive.

But at a Newark & Sherwood District Council Planning Committee last week, councillors threw out the plans because they believed the complex would be too big in an area mainly occupied by bungalows and small houses.

Said chairman Coun Keith Sheppard: "I agree that this is much larger than anything around and would look out of place."

lCouncillors also blocked plans by developer Keith Moore Properties to convert a house on Stuart Avenue, Boughton, into two flats.

Said Coun Ben Wells: "These designs are removing affordable family homes from Ollerton and Boughton and are not in keeping with the look of area."

Councillors refused the plans on grounds that the development would have a negative impact on residents and not be in keeping with the character of the area.

The planning committee also rejected a similar application from the same developer to convert a semi-detached dwelling into two two-bedroom flats on Oak Avenue, Ollerton.