Plans for a 135 home village development have been rejected by the council.

Land at Pond Farm in London Road, Newington, was earmarked for a range of two to five-bedroom houses.

Applicant Gladman Developments said, if approved, the development would have had around 27 homes per hectare.

The plans were submitted in January last year and refused by Swale Council on Monday, February 13.

Explaining the two reasons why the development was refused, a report revealed: "The application is located outside of the settlement boundary for Newington and would result in the loss of best and most versatile agricultural land on a site that is not allocated site for housing development.

"This coupled with the harm to the landscape character of the area means that the proposal does not constitute sustainable development and are not acceptable in principle.

"The Air Quality Assessment does not contain sufficient information to demonstrate that they would not worsen air quality to an unacceptable degree, taking into account the cumulative impact of development schemes within or likely to impact on air quality management areas."

The decision will be welcomed by many residents who shared their concerns for the development last year.

Previously, Paul Friend, of Playstool Road, Newington, objected to the plans through fears it could cause health problems for young children and the elderly.

He said: "Increase in traffic on the A2 through the village causing more pollution and poorer air quality.

"This would have an impact on the health and safety of young children and the elderly.

"The A2 is already busy through the village and potentially another 200 + cars certainly won't help.

"The traffic will increase due to the local school being at full capacity, so due to sporadic bus and train service, parents will have to take their primary school children elsewhere by car.

"Along with other developments in nearby Rainham, this will add to an already overloaded A2."

While Sandra Friend, of the same road, added: "To lose the Pond Farm area would be devastating, not only for me but for the varied wildlife that is often seen there.

"This village would suffer greatly if this beautiful land is lost to housing, bringing with it a possible 250 cars, all adding to the already heavy traffic on the A2."

Villager Chris Dunton commented: "Gladmans seem only interested in making money, they don't care for the local community.

"Their last application was refused and an appeal at the high court also refused planning permission. There has been no consultation from Gladmans with villagers.

"This seems to be harassment of our village and needs to be stopped."

In 2019, Gladman Development had proposals for a 330 home development rejected by the council.

The developer went to the Court of Appeal to get the decision overturned, but, again, faced disappointment when it was turned down.