Plans for an astro pitch at a Chesham farm have been thrown out after planners raised concerns about the impact on great crested newts.

The application proposed building an all-weather football pitch within the grounds of a Farm on Pednor Road.

It would have been constructed from a permeable 3G synthetic grass, that resembles natural grass but is designed to be hard wearing

“Whilst the pitch will need to be constructed on level ground, due to the existing ground being relatively level already, this will only necessitate minor changes,” the application said.

“For the avoidance of doubt the pitch is for private use only, like a tennis or padel court which are relatively commonplace in gardens across Buckinghamshire and the country.”

But Buckinghamshire Council planners refused the scheme, with three main points including the potential impact on great crested newts.

“The application site lies within a red impact risk zone for great crested newts,” the refusal notice explained.

“Indicating a high likelihood of this European protected species being present. In the absence of appropriate survey work, including a preliminary ecological appraisal and any necessary species specific surveys.

“It has not been demonstrated whether great crested newts or other protected or priority species and habitats are present, nor how the development would avoid, mitigate or compensate for potential impacts.

“Accordingly, the local planning authority cannot be satisfied that the proposal would not result in harm to biodiversity interests, or that adequate mitigation, enhancement measures, or any required licensing could be secured.”

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The pitch was also described as an intrusive feature with planners saying it would result in harm to the character of the area.

The notice added: “The proposed astro turf pitch, by reason of its siting, appearance and urbanising nature, would introduce an incongruous and visually intrusive feature within a rural farmstead setting.

“Resulting in harm to the character and appearance of the Chesham Conservation Area and the setting of nearby heritage assets, including the Grade II listed building and identified non designated heritage assets.

“This harm, which is considered to be less than substantial, is not outweighed by any public benefits.

Council planners said the application failed to show how it would deliver a biodiversity net gain, with submitted figures instead showing a 44.24 per cent loss of habitat.

Officers also said there was not enough detail about proposed tree planting or any off-site ecological improvements.

The report concluded the scheme would cause significant harm to biodiversity and conflicted with national and local planning policies aimed at protecting and enhancing wildlife habitats.