Plans to build five new homes in the Lake District have been rejected, with the proposal believed to "completely destroy the historic landscape".

The plans, submitted earlier this year on February 17 by Mr and Mrs Illman, outlined building four affordable homes and one "local needs" home at land to the east of Beckstones and north of Thornthwaite, Keswick.

With 12 letters of objection received, issues raised by surrounding residents included; lack of need for the homes in the area, insufficient parking, lowering the value of nearby properties, increasing flood risks, and " completely destroy[ing] the natural vista and view of National Park".

One letter, submitted by a regular visitor to the area of Above Derwent Parish, said: "Why affordable housing and in this location? It is obvious that affordable housing has been chosen as the plans are more likely to gain a sympathetic ear from planning officers being the current highest area of need."

Another objector wrote: "The over-riding consideration of the local plan is to give greater weight to conserving and enhancing natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage.

"Any acceptance of the plans would mean that you, as the planning authority, have not fulfilled your duty."

Other concerns outlined, considered the main worries within the decision notice, were; the location of the development, the impact of amenity on neighbours, the threat to protected species and ecology, and the appearance of the proposed homes.

Eight letters of support were also received, praising the plans of "drastically sought for local affordable housing", although the price of the homes is not included in the plans, with one supporter writing that, "the local area suffers [due] to a lack of young families living there which are vital to keeping communities alive".

Another added: "Given that the Parish Council are aware of the ongoing need for affordable housing it is surprising that they resolved to object the proposal on the grounds of open countryside location."

But as the site is considered to be "of exceptionally high landscape value" due to its location within the World Heritage Site, the plans were refused by the Lake District National Park Authority.