Outline planning permission for 40 new homes in a village near Sudbury has been denied, as neighbours have voiced concerns over noise, overlooking and infrastructure. 

The Boxford (Suffolk) Holdings Ltd plan for land south of High Road in Leavenheath was debated by Babergh District Council's planning committee on Wednesday, March 20. 

The plan, which was submitted to the council last September, was for 40 new homes, along with associated open space and landscaping buffers. 

It was controversial with residents – with the council officer confirming receipt of some 53 objections, four letters of support and four general comments. 

Concerns included the lack of facilities in the area, overlooking, an increase in noise, a detrimental impact on biodiversity and insufficient school and healthcare capacity. 

Leavenheath Parish Council also recommended refusal.

Last Wednesday, the committee refused the plan following a majority vote. 

In the same meeting, a plan for nearby land east of Blackthorn Way and Campion Way in the village was also refused.