A BID by a physiotherapist bid to build a new “eco” practice on green belt land has been thrown out.

Stuart Cosgrove wanted to create a clinic on a field in Ashcrofts Farm in Chorley Road, Westhoughton — 300 yards away from his current centre.

But councillors objected to the centre being built on green belt land — and unanimously rejected it.

Mr Cosgrove told the committee how his plans, which cost £21,000, included a scheme for a nature reserve, sensory garden and beehive, which could be used by community groups and nearby schools.

He added: “I fervently believe this application shows the very special circumstances to allow a development in green belt land.”

But in moving refusal, Cllr Bob Allen said there was not enough evidence in the application to justify a new building on the countryside. He said: “Councils all over the country are under a great deal of pressure to allow building on green belt land, so we have to be very clear about what our criteria is and what constitutes an exceptional development.”

Westhoughton Town Council also rejected the plans, with a similar proposal refused in 2011.

An appeal to the planning inspectorate also failed.