Plan for underground house rejected

David Rogers had applied to build the eco-friendly house, which would be almost invisible to passers-by, close to the A616 Whams Road.

However, councillors have refused consent for the development, claiming that it is at odds with planning policy.

Architect Michael Clynch told the Yorkshire Post that he planned to appeal the decision and added: “David is very disappointed, as am I. It’s a sad situation but we’re going to appeal the decision.”

Plans drawn up by Mr Clynch show a three-metre high building with a vegetated green roof to provide insulation. Heating would come from natural sunlight, while the only visible aspect of the property would be a natural stone wall that could be seen from the north.

Just three letters of objection were suibmitted to Barnsley Council in relation to the plans, while two letters of support were also received, claiming that the house could be built with “little or no visual impact.”

The case will now go before an independent planning inspector.