For the second time in eight month, businessman Norman Bedford has withdrawn plans to build three houses in a Coates conservation area.

His latest application was withdrawn by his agent just 48 hours before it was due before Fenland District Council Planning Committee. Officers had recommended the application for rejection.

Fenland’s conservation officer says the latest scheme is better than the first and on balance no objection is raised to development but more work is needed. On balance he felt the plot lent itself to two homes “of simple forms and of different appearances”.

Mr Bedford’s agent believes demolition of the house will have no impact on the surrounding listed buildings “as it is of no architectural value and very little age”.

However planning officers believe the proposals in their form “fail to enhance or respect the visual amenities of the conservation area”.

Five objections from residents include expressing disappointment with the way a community consultation was conducted. Mr Bedford’s agent said a questionnaire was sent out and of nine responses, five were in support and four objected.

“The feedback received was positive which demonstrates evidence of clear local community support,” says Mr Bedford’s agent.

One neighbour told Fenland Council: “We live on a single track road. I do not want three houses. Our once happy home is now a place I for one wish I had never purchased.”

Another said: “North Green is a conservation area which would be spoiled by any such development.”