Proposed plans to sacrifice AONB land in Amersham to build care homes for people with learning difficulties were blocked last night.

Planning officers' recommendation for refusal on the project was upheld by by Chiltern District Council.

The proposal by social housing developers Paradigm Housing and Buckinghamshire County Council, which included plans for 33 supported living units, was put forward for the area north of High Street in Old Amersham.

It is not yet known whether Paradigm Housing will be appealing the decision.