Plans for a farmhouse in the grounds of a private boarding school to become a four-bedroom family home have been refused.
The building off Avenue Road in Hurst Green was previously used to house visiting rugby teams to Stonyhurst College but has since been sold for residential development.
Under plans submitted to Ribble Valley Borough Council last month, the currently vacant farmhouse was proposed to become a modern four-bedroom house with a detached garage.
However, these proposals have been knocked back by planning bosses who said the design would be "unsympathetic and incongruous" to the area.
A decision notice said: "It is considered that the proposed development would be harmful to the visual amenities of the area and for this reason it is not considered that the proposal in this instance would conserve or enhance the character of the surrounding landscape."
Plans for the farmhouse included a full demolition of the current building and its replacement with a larger dwelling alongside a detached garage.
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A planning statement added that the applicant intended to retain a wild meadow-style garden merging with the existing landscape which would provide screening to the development and a natural habitat for wildlife.
The statement continued: “The design of the new dwelling is conceived on the idea of a modern-day farmhouse.
"Designed to a scale not dissimilar to other converted agriculture buildings in the area, the property is considered to be fitting for its rural setting.
“The external balconies at the first-floor level are an addition the applicant was keen to include given the impressive views achievable above the tree tops from the elevated position.
"Being able to sit outside in the fresh air and appreciate the views is an important aspect of the design.”
The applicant has six months to appeal the council's decision if they wish.
To view the plans in full, visit the council's planning website.
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