The owners of land in Lydiard Millicent whose plan to build houses has been turned down twice may look again at what to do with the site.

When Wiltshire council originally refused plans to build nine houses, and a play area, public open space and footpath on land at Church Place in the village west of Swindon, the applicants took it to an appeal.

That was recently decided by an inspector appointed by the Secretary of State for housing, communities and local government - who backed the original decision by the council.

The inspector’s report says: “The council’s reasons for refusals include whether the site is appropriate for housing, the effect on the character and appearance of the area including heritage assets and archaeological and ecological concerns.

“When viewed in the round the development would be detrimental to the setting of the listed buildings, All Saints Church, the church yard cross and the war memorial, and to the character and appearance to the conservation area.”

Speaking via their agent Mark Doodes Planning, the landowners, a Steve and Ruth Kershaw said: “Whilst we accept the decision of the planning inspector we are disappointed that he has overlooked the benefits of the proposed development to the village.

“It was always our intention that any development on the site would provide a positive contribution to the village both in terms of amenities and environmentally whilst avoiding another typically estate-like development.

“The provision of open space to the village would have provided a focal point in the village centre as well as providing protection from further development in the future.

“We would, of course, welcome any future dialogue with parishioners on realising the potential of the site.”

A Wiltshire Council spokesperson said: “We are pleased the inspector upheld the decision of the council and that the harmful impacts of the development have been recognised.”