The government has backed Gravesham council in a legal row over plans to build a house on green belt land in Shorne.

Planning inspector Cullum Parker dismissed an appeal by developer Julian Wood for a two-storey building next to the See-Ho pub in Pear Tree Lane.

The initial application was refused by the council as it breached the green belt boundary around the village.

But Mr Wood lodged a legal challenge against the decision on the grounds not enough land was available for housing.

The wrangle found its way to the Court of Appeal before it was eventually dismissed.

Mr Parker said the proposed development contravened the council’s strategy and national planning policy. He also rejected the developer's argument about not enough land being supplied for housing.

Council leader Cllr John Cubitt said the authority has seen off a serious challenge to its policy in protecting the green belt.

He said: "This is a clear signal that our blueprint for the future development throughout the borough is sound and capable of defending the green belt.

"This council is determined to uphold the green belt and defend it robustly."