Plans to build 660 homes in north Ipswich have been refused. 

Ipswich Borough Council received an outline planning application for a site to the rear of Humber Doucy Lane and Tuddenham Lane by developers Barratt David Wilson and Hopkins Homes in April. 

After a review by Ipswich Borough Council and East Suffolk Council announced on Tuesday it was refusing the proposed development through delegated powers.

It comes after objections were lodged by residents and Sports England to the plans as the proposed development would have seen the loss of two rugby pitches used by Ipswich Rugby Club. 

Earlier this week National Highways objected to the plans as they believed the new development would put too much pressure on the A12, its service roads and the junctions.

Network Rail has also objected to it, claiming that the Westerfield Road station will not be able to take additional traffic from the new residents in the area, due to its small platforms, lack of parking provisions and unsafe crossings. 

Rushmere St Andrews Parish Council previously discussed the plans in their meeting and submitted objections to them. 

Following the announcement, a spokesperson from Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council said; "The parish council as consultees in the planning process, welcome East Suffolks response to this application.

"In the light of concerns raised by local residents, Rushmere St Andrew Parish Council look forward to future proposals made by the applicants for this development."

Similarly, Tuddenham St Martins Parish Council has also submitted objections to the plans. 

A joint statement from the two councils reads: "The development of new housing, and especially affordable housing, is a top priority for Ipswich Borough Council and East Suffolk District Council, especially on sites allocated within our Local Plans.

"With the growing demand for housing, we are keen to see this strategic, allocated site developed. However, the proposals need to align with our strategic vision for sustainable and balanced growth.

"Our decision to refuse planning permission for Humber Doucy Lane within the statutory 13 weeks determination period reflects our commitment to preserving the quality of life for our residents, protecting our environment, and ensuring that any new developments are in the best interests of our community as a whole."

In issuing a refusal the councils are seeking to explore the opportunity to encourage a scheme to come forward that, amongst other things: is masterplan led, maximises the opportunities of landscape, ecology and open space, and demonstrably provides safe highways access and connectivity.