Applicant Nicola Robson has already bought the plot at Heathfield at Stobhill Grange, Morpeth, and was seeking permission to include it in her garden.

However, ten letters of objection were submitted, with neighbours concerned the plans would deprive the area of open space, lead to the removal of trees and if the plot was fenced off it would look out-of-keeping.

Morpeth Town Council also opposed the proposal over the loss of open, green space and public amenity land.

But Miss Robson told Castle Morpeth councillors that the site serves no useful purpose in its present state.

"The land itself doesn't make any positive contribution, either visually or functionally," she said.

"There are other areas for people to use — there is an extensive playing field at the top of Heathfield.

"This site is not used by the public for dog walking or by children for playing because it is too small. I live next to it and haven't seen anyone on it. Dog walkers do go up and down the street, but not on the land because there is nothing there.

"If you grant the application I would be responsible for maintaining the land and would make it more attractive and encourage wildlife. It would release the Council from using public money to maintain the land."

Borough planning officers advised members to refuse consent for the scheme, saying the plot made an effective contribution to the functional and visual amenity of the estate.

The Borough's Development Services Committee unanimously rejected the application.