A LANDOWNER's bid to keep ten CCTV cameras around his property was rejected after a neighbour complained it 'has the feel of a German concentration camp'.

The cameras are posted along a 7ft boarded fence marking the boundary of Babs Park, which is off Blind Lane in Bourne End.

Mike Parker's plans to retain the cameras have been rejected by Wycombe District Council, which said they are inappropriate development for the Green Belt.

Mr Parker told the Bucks Free Press the cameras are for security purposes and said he would not be removing them.

He has already clashed with the council over developments at Babs Park, and was awarded costs of up to £190,000 after a planning inquiry was halted at the last minute in September 2009.

Mrs A Sharp, a Blind Lane resident, wrote to the council about the cameras: “Why does a field just on the other side of the road opposite my property have CCTV cameras?

“When I come out of my house I have a feeling of seeing a German concentration camp, with several cameras watching every move I make, day and night.”

Several other villagers, along with The Chilterns Society, have also objected.

Another planning inquiry is set to hear Mr Parker and the council's arguments over developments at the property, though the date has yet to be confirmed.

The council says Babs Park is being used for commercial purposes without permission and believes unauthorised development has taken place.

Mr Parker said he does not need planning permission for the developments.

The council halted the previous inquiry because it wanted to 'reassess' and issue a new enforcement notice (see link below).

Planning inspector Ian Currie has since awarded costs to Mr Parker, who had claimed fees of more than £200,000. The council said it has contested the total awarded.