A DEVELOPER has lost his appeal to keep a 30ft high earth mound towering above homes in St Mary's Platt, near Borouygh Green.

William Terry built the mound as part of a private archery range to be used no more than 28 days each year, a public inquiry had heard.

Planning inspector Neil Roberts has now ruled that the mound had an overbearing and unnatural effect on neighbouring homes. He said: "The development is readily apparent as an alien man-made feature out of place in this attractive rural setting."

Dozens of villagers and St Mary's Platt Parish Council have opposed the structure since it was built almost a year ago.

alien featureMr Terry has been allowed six months to tear down the mound.