A BIDFORD businessman has failed in his bid to boost security at his premises.

Members of Stratford District Council West Area Planning Committee rejected an application from Mark Smith to site a mobile home at The Pony Meadow in the village

Mr Smith, who runs a small nursery and agricultural business, wanted to put the temporary structure near to his storage building in Honeybourne Road, following five break-ins in the past four years.

In his application, Mr Smith had told planning councillors that he wanted the mobile home, which would be lived in from time to time by his son, to enhance security at the site.

But councillors refused to grant permission after officers said they feared it could set a precedent.

Mr Smith said after the meeting in Wooton Wawen last Thursday: "I'm very upset. I don't want to do anything else about it as it's like banging your head against a brick wall."

He said he would now talk to a friend about setting up video cameras at the site, though there is no electricity currently connected to Pony Meadow.

He estimated that around £4,000 worth of tools and equipment had been stolen in the past four years.

"It's not whether or not the business can keep going, it's whether the insurers will insure me," said Mr Smith, who mows and maintains parish council run land, including the Big Meadow.

Bidford district councillor Daren Pemberton urged Mr Smith to appeal against the refusal.

"This is a rural business and the Big Meadow wouldn't be the way it is without him," said Cllr Pemberton. "I think there is a real threat to his business and, having spoken to his insurers, if he is unable to take adequate measures to protect it, they will refuse insurance," he added.