A controversial flats development which critics said would block sunlight to a church has been refused planning permission.

The proposal by Spencer Rose for a building extension and the construction of nine new flats behind Loughton High Road was considered last night at a Epping Forest District Council planning meeting.

Officers had recommended the plans be approved despite several objections.

Speaking at last night’s meeting, councillor Chris Pond raised an objection by Loughton Methodist Church, which claimed the flats would cause “significant loss of light in the worship area”.

Cllr Pond said the extension, which would have added an extra floor, would have blocked sunlight to at least one of the church’s rooflights.

Councillors raised several other issues at the meeting, including problems with waste and recycling storage.

Councillor John Knapman said: “I find it almost impossible for me to support something where the waste conditions that are being stated cannot be delivered because the people who own the land have already said they are just not going to allow it.”

The planners had proposed to store waste to the back of the property on land belonging to the post delivery office, but the Royal Mail stated it would not allow the plans.

Other issues raised included a lack of parking spaces for visitors to the flats.

Developers will now have the opportunity to appeal the decision or submit amended plans.