Protesters have been defeated in their fight to stop 27 new homes being built in their village.

The application for land in Easole Street, Nonington - between Dover and Canterbury - has been approved, despite 44 letters of objections from residents.

They said the development was disproportionate to the village and out of character with the area.

They also felt it was too overcrowded, even though the amount of properties had been reduced from 29 in an amendment.

Villager Denise Ellinor said in the council planning portal: “A total 27 homes are proposed in a relatively small area.

“The minimal amendments that have been made (29 to 27) are completely insufficient to make this project acceptable.”

Jane Elliott added: “The so important green space will be filled with out-of-character houses – there are no pavements and no room for road improvements in Easole Street.

“Local resources are completely stretched. It currently takes six weeks to get a local doctors appointment, as an example.”

A small group of protesters with banners had gathered outside Dover District Council headquarters, in Whitfield, just before the meeting, held earlier this month.

The application for 29 homes, including flats, had come before the planning committee last February but councillors had then deferred a decision.

This was until officers negotiated with the applicant, Roma Homes of Ashford, to amend the plan.

Some councillors felt 29 dwellings was too much.

But now, officers had recommended approval of the scheme, which also involves demolishing existing industrial buildings.

Their report to councillors said: “The proposed development would not have an unduly adverse impact on either the character and appearance of the area, the heritage assets, the living conditions of the occupiers of adjacent properties, or highway safety.”

Six of the planning committee voted for the application, two voted against and two others abstained.