Plans for homes on top of a train tunnel that were condemned by neighbours have been refused after 36 objections flew in.

If approved the developer would have built three three-bed semi-detached homes, one three-bed terraced house, and one five-bed semi-detached house at the rear garden of 32 Strangeways, Watford.

However, the plan was refused by Watford Borough Council on April 21 and the decision notice cited five reasons including a “cramped” appearance, tree removal issues, “unacceptable loss of privacy” for nearby homes, and information which it says was absent in the plan.

In a report the planning officer said: “The proposed development would appear cramped due to the arrangement of buildings and their very close proximity to the heavily treed site boundaries.

“The proposed development would be harmful to the character and appearance of the area,” they added, recommending refusal.

Objectors were apparently “overjoyed” by the decision. While the plan was pending consideration, after being submitted on February 7, some locals had voiced their displeasure.

Watford Observer: Plans for five family homes were submitted Plans for five family homes were submitted (Image: MBL Architecture)

One neighbour, whose home would have bordered the new development, said she would “feel like I am looking onto a prison” if it was approved.

A group of locals sent letters to others living in Strangeways, Courtlands Drive, and Goodwood Avenue to make them aware of the plan.

Several people objected because they believed it would increase traffic in the area or had concerns over access to the site and the design of the new units.

Each home would have had a designated parking space and two bike spaces while four bike areas would be available for visitors.

Others condemned the plans because they believed the proposed look of the homes was not in keeping with the area.

Concerns were also raised about the access road being in poor condition and some people were worried that the public’s access to the nearby recreation ground would not be as easy if the build goes ahead.

After residents raised concerns, the Watford Observer approached MBL Architecture for a response.

Watford Observer: If approved, the site would have been accessed from Goodwood Avenue.If approved, the site would have been accessed from Goodwood Avenue. (Image: Google Street View)

The application can be found on the council's planning portal via reference 23/00089/FUL.