Controversial plans for glamping pods in Cheshire have been knocked back amid concerns over traffic and visual impact on the countryside.

Local opinion had been sharply divided over the prospect of the six timber glamping pods being constructed on land at Moss Cottage, Patmos Lane, Lower Peover.

Some local businesses had spoken in support, while Cheshire Wildlife Trust and some local residents had voiced opposition - with concerns being raised over traffic and the presence of protected wildlife.

A letter of objection by the trust said it had been alerted to certain bird species such as lapwing, reed bunting, yellowhammer, bullfinch in the area and that all were protected species.

Planning documents submitted in support of the scheme claimed it would be a boost to the local economy, a view shared by some local businesses such as the Bells of Peover pub.

But now planning officers at Cheshire West and Chester Council have thrown out the application.

In a decision published today (Wednesday) on the council’s online planning portal, officers said the proposed development was located in an 'unsustainable location' that would be heavily dependant on the use of private vehicles, adding that it 'did not have good accessibility via major roads and public transport'.

They added that the proposed development would cause 'significant harm' to the visual amenity of the local area and the 'intrinsic beauty of the Cheshire countryside'.

Officers also said the proposed development would result in increased traffic which would have an 'unacceptable impact' on highways safety.

They also claimed insufficient information had been provided for the council to determine if there would be any adverse impact on protected species and their habitats.

In their refusal notice, officers concluded: "The local planning authority considers that the proposed development is unacceptable in principle.

"It has therefore not been possible to work with the applicant in a positive and proactive way to secure a development that will improve the economic, social and environmental conditions of the area."

A previous application which also included hook-ups for 10 caravans or motor homes, was withdrawn earlier this year after it received numerous objections from neighbouring residents.