Plans to built more than 200 homes on countryside land on the border of Colne and Nelson have been turned down by the Government.
Persimmon Homes Lancashire made the application to Pendle Council who refused it.
Persimmon then appealed to the Department of Communities and Local Government and in July there was a public local inquiry led by planning inspector Mike Robins.
The plan initially involved the erection of 212 homes – later reduced to 203 – and associated highway, engineering and landscaping work and public open space on the land off Knotts Lane, Colne, and above the railway.
Many people had expressed their concern that the countryside was going to be built on.
And this week it was announced that Secretary of State Eric Pickles agreed with the Inspector’s recommendation for refusal of the plan.
A letter to representatives of Persimmon on behalf of Mr Pickles said: “He hereby dismisses your client’s appeal and refuses planning permission for the erection of 203 dwellings at Knotts Lane, Colne.”
It was made clear, however, that they could challenge the decision by applying to the High Court.
Welcoming the refusal, Pendle Council leader Joe Cooney said: “This is great news for local residents who campaigned against this totally inappropriate development.
“The developer took no notice of concerns raised by residents and councillors.
“We aren’t against development but this simply was the wrong development for that area.”
And Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson commented: “I am delighted to hear this news. I wrote to the Secretary of State earlier this month reiterating my opposition to this development and am delighted that he has agreed with what I said. The proposed development was poorly designed and not sustainable for the area.”
County Coun. Azhar Ali said: “I think this is brilliant news for local people and all the residents involved in the Get Knotted group who worked tirelessly to preserve the fields off Knotts Lane. But the battle goes on to ensure these green fields are protected.” He also wants to protect the nearby Gib Hill area.