It is the second refusal for proposals for homes at Heathfield Nursery, near Heathfield and Oake. The site, owned by Mr and Mrs Richard Pinkerton-Hiron, already has permission for four four-bedroom homes, which the couple had sought to replace with the latest application. A submission with the fresh proposals, which included demolishing other buildings, said the plans respect the rural character of the site and is in keeping with some of the nearby historic farmsteads. “The proposed dwellings siting, scale, form and appearance shows a lack of regard to the character of the area and would result in development that was incompatible with the character of the rural landscape, resulting in harm to the natural environment.”The scheme on the “derelict an unsightly” site, which features large greenhouses and associated outbuildings, had been unanimously supported by Oake Parish Council. Its member argued that the houses were of “excellent design in keeping with the local area” and would have a “classic look that blends well with the locality”.