Developers met staunch resistance over plans to build on the rural edge of a village at the start of a two-day public inquiry.

Antler Homes’ plan to build four homes on the site of a bungalow in Busbridge Road, Loose, was refused permission by Maidstone council in April, a decision against which the developers subsequently appealed.

Both sides are now fighting it out before an inspector at the Museum of Kent Life, Sandling, in a public inquiry scheduled for today and tomorrow.

Among the objectors is Sue Hill, chairman of Loose Parish Council’s planning committee.

She said: “This is the first development of this size that this picturesque village has had since the 1970s.

“It’s four generic mediocre executive close style homes that do not have a place in Loose.”

She said there was strong feeling in the village against land owner Lee Hurst.

“Unfortunately it is a shame that what was once an okay bungalow has been allowed to come into a dilapidated state, just so he can make some money.

“It is a fabby place to live and to want to come in and destroy the beauty of the plac, to us is almost criminal.”

Solicitor Thomas Cosgrove, who is at the inquiry to represent the developers, noted the council’s original reason for refusal was related to the buildings’ design and their failure to enhance the area.

He added: “They’re not saying you can’t develop this site.

“We suggest the proposal will not have an adverse impact and will make a contribution to the Loose Valley.”

While the inquiry is expected to end tomorrow a decision by the planning inspectorate could take weeks or months.