An ancient woodland at Lake Wood near Uckfield, East Sussex, has been saved after the government backed the local authority's decision to refuse planning permission for a new housing development.

Wealden District Council (WDC) originally rejected plans put forward by Clarence Preston Will Trust and Barham Estates for 750 homes at the Downlands Farm site to the north of the town. The scheme was referred to communities secretary Hazel Blears after the developers appealed against the decision. However, the government has now upheld WDC's ruling on the grounds that the proposals would conflict with the local development plan.

Lake Wood is an area of ghyll woodland, one of the rarest types of woodland in South East England, and is home to numerous species of wildlife sensitive to water and air pollution. The Woodland Trust has welcomed the government's decision. Alice Farr said: "It's a win for the environment, for wildlife, and for the numerous local families that enjoy the wood. The plans are in contravention to several planning policies and it is heartening to see that the protection of these valuable habitats is taken seriously.

"The decision to dismiss the inquiry is a step in the right direction for the protection of ancient woodland, but this success could not have happened without the invaluable advice of Natural England and the support of the Downlands Action Group."