A developer is challenging the Planning Inspectorate’s refusal of its controversial appeal to build housing on historic parkland in east Suffolk.

Hopkins Homes claims inspector Tim Wood’s dismissal of its 26-home development in Yoxford was “inconsistent” with other decisions and is calling for it to be overturned.

Mr Wood, delivering his verdict in July, said the application posed “unacceptable effects that were not outweighed by any benefits”.

The proposals had been met with fierce local opposition from campaigners who raised fears about its impact on the village cricket club, the loss of historic parkland and the character of the housing proposed.

Tim Williams, a Yoxford resident who co-ordinated the appeal, has met the news of Hopkins Homes’ appeal with frustration.

He said he was “disappointed” at Hopkins Homes “who seem impervious to the objections of the local residents, Yoxford Parish Council, the democratically elected representatives of Suffolk Coastal District Council and now the Planning Inspectorate”. “We are not altogether surprised however that Hopkins Homes have chosen to continue their attempts,” he added.

The district council, which defended its refusal at the planning inquiry, is also disappointed.

Councillor Geoff Holdcroft, who is responsible for planning at the district, said: “The planning inspector’s decision to vindicate our original decision to refuse planning permission, came after a detailed public enquiry which fully examining all the evidence and both sides of the argument. As such, I expect that the Planning Inspectorate will vigorously defend this action.”

A Hopkins Homes spokesman said: “We were clearly disappointed with the Planning Inspectorate decision and felt it was inconsistent with other planning appeal decisions reached. We stand by our opinion that this is a suitable location within Yoxford to provide growth and deliver much-needed homes.”