Although the plans for homes in Clay Lane were rejected, Chichester District Council planning officers said the decision would be reviewed by the planning applications referral committee.

The officers also warned the council had no grounds to uphold an appeal against its refusal should one be made by the applicant.

The field in question is on the north side of Clay Lane, west of the junction with Salthill Road. The outline planning application was for 31 houses and 19 flats.

Behind the land is the A27, which many objectors raised as a main reason why it should not go ahead with the likely noise pollution residents would suffer from the dual carriageway.

Resident David Acres said: "There are all these reasons why it should not take place. Ten of the committee members objected – it was pretty obvious it was not a good site.

"But the planners wanted a resolution for it to go for referral.

"The local residents do not really get much of a say, and the councillors do not really get listened to.

"It boils down to two guys from the council who look at the planning side of things."

Residents were concerned about the flood risk of the site, which on the morning of the meeting had been left partially under water from heavy rain.

Concerns were raised about whether Fishbourne's roads, school and shops could cope with the influx of more residents.

Fishbourne Parish Council chairman Julian Snell said: "I was very surprised all the councillors supported our opposition to the plans. We were very pleased they took the view they did.

"You can understand why they wish to review things again – the planning officers warned them they may incur costs if it goes to an appeal.

"I think the parish council and objectors put up a strong case it should not go ahead.

"The reasons why it shouldn't go ahead are its close proximity to the A27, fears about drainage, both foul and storm water, traffic on Clay Lane and fumes from the A27.

"It will have an impact on the village, it will add to the congestion on the roads and Clay Lane and there is the obvious problem of lack of public transport. People will have to use their cars to get anywhere."

Cllr Maureen Elliott said at the meeting: "The only thing I see as sustainable is the open fields which I would like to leave as they are.

"Frankly, it is overbearing. It needs to stay as it is. The schools are overcrowded. Where are all the children going to go?"

Cllr Mary Marrs said: "All this extra housing and traffic is totally wrong for Clay Lane. It would make it more dangerous than it already is."

The plans received 76 objections.