Plans for a £67.5m visitor centre and access scheme at Stonehenge – one of the UK’s most recognisable heritage sites – were turned down by councillors last night (26 July).

Salisbury District Council refused the plans – which were submitted by English Heritage in September 2004 – because of concerns about the effect on the environment and the government’s recent announcement that it is to review upgrades to the nearby A303.

A scheme to create a tunnel for the A303 is to be reviewed because of a rise in estimated costs from £180m to £470m.

A spokesperson for English Heritage said: “English heritage is very surprised and disappointed by this decision. Approval was recommended by the planning authority and the scheme was also approved by the council’s Northern Area Committee at its meeting on 19 July.

“We believe that the grounds for refusal are ones which can easily be addressed and we will be discussing when to resubmit the scheme with Salisbury District Council.”

In a statement issued today, Salisbury District Council said the decision of the planning and regulatory committee was final. However, if English Heritage chooses to appeal there will be a public inquiry.

The planning application included proposals for creating a new education and interpretation centre, which would be linked to Stonehenge via a land train, and a scheme to remove the visual impact and noise of roads and traffic. Details: www.english-heritage.org.uk