A BUSINESSMAN wanting to build nine student flats in Oxford’s Roger Dudman Way has lost his planning appeal.

Tariq Khuja appealed against Oxford City Council’s refusal of planning permission to build on land next to Thames Wharf.

The plans for student rooms over three floors was opposed by local residents, who said there was already substantial student accommodation on the road, with the completion nearby of Oxford University’s controversial Castle Mill student blocks.

They warned it would lead to increased levels of noise and late night disturbance.

Upholding the council’s decision in his ruling made on Tuesday planning inspector G. Powys Jones said the scheme would have “an unacceptable impact on the character and appearance” of the surrounding area.

Oxford city council officers had recommended acceptance of the plan.

A spokesman for the Save Port Meadow campaign group said they were “delighted” at the decision.

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