Compassion triumphed over planning policy when a multiple sclerosis sufferer was granted permission to build a specially-adapted bungalow, despite planning officers' objections.

David Cooper of Well Place, Ipsden, near Wallingford, asked South Oxfordshire District Council to let him build the bungalow, with a sunken garage, near his present home.

Planning officers said the application was against council policy and should be refused, but members decided by a two-vote margin to give him the go-ahead.

Mr Cooper, who addressed the committee from his wheelchair, said after the meeting: "I am so relieved and grateful.

"Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease and I need to start straight away to get this specially-adapted house up before things get worse.

"It was touch and go in the council chamber and my heart was in my mouth a few times, but I am very glad of the result."

His application was supported by the parish council as a special case and by residents.

At the committee meeting, member John Stimson opposed granting planning permission and said an extension should be put on the existing house, rather than allowing the new building, to protect the countryside.

But fellow councillor Mark Jennings said: "Planning officers have to abide by policies, but we as members have discretion.

"Mr and Mrs Cooper have lived there over 20 years and are an integral part of the local community -- he has been a parish councillor and school governor.

"We should put our understanding of and compassion for the human condition before rigid policy.

"We must treat the disabled and their needs with humanity."