CONTROVERSIAL plans to build 265 homes on green belt land have been thrown out after a four year battle.

The Rt Hon Sajid Javid, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, ruled the proposed estate on land off Jotmans Lane, Benfleet, would “represent inappropriate development.”

An application drawn up by Persimmon Homes was initially refused outline planning permission by Castle Point Council in 2013.

A lengthy legal battle followed - with the developer taking the case to the Government in a bid to overturn the decision. It prompted a four-day hearing in September 2015.

After more than 18 months of deliberations, the Secretary of State ruled in favour of Castle Point Council - despite a Government planning inspector recommending the appeal was upheld.

In a report published on Friday, Mr Javid: “I disagree with the Inspector’s recommendation and have decided to dismiss the appeal and refuse planning permission.

“The proposal would represent inappropriate development in the green belt, would harmfully and permanently reduce openness and would conflict with the purposes of the green belt.”

Andrew Sheldon, Tory councillor for Benfleet,told of his relief. He said: “I think this was always going to be the test for developers, what this has proved is that the Government is committed to protecting green belt.

“Residents, councillors and our MP have been fighting to defend Jotmans for years, and this has seen a victory for common sense and democracy. “

Mr Sheldon rounded on opposition councillors - claiming they showed “little faith” in the chances of defending the appeal.

Sue Buhr, from the Save Jotmans Farm campaign group, welcomed the announcement - but warned the developer could still come back with a High Court appeal.

She said: “We are over the moon, and we have been fighting for years to fend this off.

“I would like to thank everyone for their hard work, particularly our MP who fought alongside us from day one.”

Rebecca Harris, Tory MP for Castle Point, said: “This is nothing to do with nimbyism.

“The sense of countryside and openness is invaluable to thousands of residents in the area.

“I have been sent so many messages of relief. We’re all very happy.”