A woman's bid to build four houses in a quiet riverside village has been refused.

Paula Skippings was seeking permission in principle from Great Yarmouth Borough Council to build the homes in Stokesby.

The site was on land north of Filby Road and according to the proposals was located in an "open gap" in the village.

The plans included three two-storey houses, one bungalow and green amenity space.

In a decision made on Monday planners said the proposed development was "out of keeping" with the rural character of the area.

READ MORE: Plans to build 40 houses in village in the pipeline

The applicant had said the proposed green space would provide an area for social interaction for both residents of the houses and people already living in Stokesby.

But planners said the application failed to adequately address the demands for public open space. 

The bid had faced one objection from Stokesby with Herringby Parish Council which raised concerns over the loss of trees and wildlife and the lack of affordable housing.

A planning statement had said the bungalow would be suitable for elderly or disabled residents, allowing them to stay in the village.