A PLAN to build Britain's first large scale US-style retirement village has been rejected.

However, developer Javid Majid intends to appeal the decision by Stockton Borough Council not to allow the £100m village to be built at Mount Leven, between Ingleby Barwick and Yarm.

The village of 350 homes, largely bungalows, and a 100-bed retirement home would be the first of its scale in the UK and would also have swimming pool, doctor's surgery, gym and cafe.

The planning committee refused permission by a vote of 8-4 after following the advice of planning officers who said the village would be an "unjustified incursion" on green land separating Yarm and Ingleby Barwick, which would harm wildlife and increase traffic problems.

More than 150 members of the public attended the meeting at Stockton's Baptist Tabernacle church; however, they seemed roughly split for and against.

A total of 19 members of the public spoke from the floor, including landowner Mr Majid.

He said the village would not be on the "green wedge" land between the two communities, he had introduced wildlife in the area himself, including red deer, and he could introduce businesses like motocross racing and rally driving that would actually harm the area but would be easier to get permission for.

He added: "This would be a flagship for Stockton."

He was supported by seven other speakers, including one elderly man who spoke movingly about how he struggled to look after his disabled wife but did not want to move her into a home. Others said it would bring jobs to Stockton.

However, 11 people spoke against, saying the plan ran against the council's own policy of protecting the green space.

They were backed by council deputy leader Jim Beall, who said he had visited US retirement villages and was not impressed.

After the vote, Mr Majid said he would appeal, adding he was "extremely disappointed".

Council leader Bob Cook said: "While there were clearly benefits to be had from this scheme, overall it was felt that the proposed development would have a detrimental impact on the green wedge between Yarm and Ingleby Barwick.

"Mr Majid already has a number of approved planning applications, including 62 houses and 81 apartments alongside an upgrade and extension of the hotel on the Tall Trees site and a cafe.

"These are in suitable locations and we are therefore happy to support these developments."