Planning officers had recommended approval of plans for a major scheme next to a 'leafy' approach road to the city, but the district's southern area development control committee threw out the scheme.
One councillor urged it to take a firm stand against the 'destruction' of this part of the city.
There were warnings that if the proposals were approved, this could set a dangerous precedent for overdevelopment of sites across the area, with builders targeting detached houses with large gardens.
Full report in July 6 issue of the Observer