A developer has lost his appeal to build 52 homes at Milton Heights, near Abingdon, despite support from the parish council and housing organisations.

The Vale of White Horse District Council ruled that the proposal not only violated the county structure plan but also the Vale local plan, both of which oppose large developments in open countryside.

Half the 52 homes were earmarked for affordable housing, but the council argued that there was already sufficient social housing provision in the area. London businessman Anton Nik-Khah appealed but a planning inspector agreed with the council's decision and dismissed the appeal.

Mr Nik-Khah owns the 4.2-acre site of overgrown land next to the Home Farm Trust headquarters for people with learning disabilities, Milton United football club's ground, and the village primary school.

Support for the application when it was discussed earlier this year came from George Strange, chairman of Milton Parish Council, who said properties were expensive in the village and there was a need for more affordable homes.

William Peck, of the Home Farm Trust, added his support while Stewart Lilly, vice-president of the National Housing Association, who represented the Sovereign Housing Association, claimed the district had been handed affordable homes on a plate.

Mr Nik-Khah had offered to make a financial contribution to education, the fire and rescue service, waste management facilities and was prepared to make land available for community use.

But the appeal inspector said that while there would be some benefit from allowing the scheme, it was not legitimate for unacceptable development to be allowed because of benefits offered by a developer.