PLANS to build 225 new homes in Fareham have been refused by the council over fears of ruining natural habitats.

Foreman Homes had plans to build 225 homes, a bird conservation area for geese and an area of open space on land to the south of Romsey Avenue.

However, Fareham Borough Council refused the plans.

A report published ahead of the meeting on September 16, said that there were ‘overriding reasons for refusal to the proposals.’

The land is a European protected site. Since the application was first submitted in 2018, residents have protested over fears that the development would disturb birds and geese.

There were 489 objections by residents against the plans with other concerns about a shortage of affordable housing and increased traffic.

The report said that Natural England objected the plans as it would result in a loss of habitat. The plans also failed to make provisions for affordable housing and failed to secure financial contributions to road improvements.

Chairman for the planning committee, Councillor Nick Walker said: “You have to take notice of what Natural England say.

“It is more of a wildlife sanctuary than it was before.

“Residents have been highly delighted - they’ve had a two year campaign to stop it and they’ve won.

“I was very pleased with the decision.”

The Daily Echo contacted Foreman Homes but the firm did not respond to request for comment before the paper went to print.