The owner of a Sarratt chicken farm has been criticised by councillors for allegedly turning a picturesque corner of the village into a “refugee camp”.

Tim Norris, owner of Mulberry Bush Farm, in Dawes Lane, faced tough criticism at a meeting of Three Rivers District Council, where he saw yet another planning application rejected by its development control committee.

Since 2001, Mr Norris, who specialises in free range chickens, has made nearly 20 unsuccessful applications to the council requesting various extensions and improvements to the business. Some of these decisions were, however, overturned on appeal by the Planning Inspectorate.

On Thursday night he was attempting to win permission to station a mobile home at the site, against heavy opposition from some local residents and councillors keen to protect the environmental integrity of the Chess Valley.

Council leader Ann Shaw was unequivocal in her condemnation of the latest application. She said: “Years ago this site was a beautiful green field. It is now covered with unauthorised buildings and caravans and is an absolute disgrace. It looks more like a refugee camp.”

Another local resident, who lives just 400 metres from the farm, complained about the often “strong smell of chicken manure” coming from the site.

The application was rejected unanimously by the committee.

Mr Norris, previously interviewed by the Watford Observer, argues he is merely trying to make a living with a traditional countryside industry.