A government inspector has shot down plans by developers to flatten a Southfields rifle club and build homes in its place.

The inspector ruled the development of six houses and seven flats would have meant the unacceptable loss of a sporting facility.

The Wimbledon Park Rifle Club has been on the site in Granville Road since 1904 and members have included many international champions.

The planning inquiry was held after developer St George appealed against a decision by Wandsworth Council to turn down the plans in March.

Local residents associations, neighbours and the club protested against the housing scheme, which they said would mean a loss of privacy and open space, extra traffic and the loss of a treasured sports club.

An earlier scheme for 24 flats was also rejected by the planning committee the previous May and eight years ago another inspector refused permission for 15 houses because of the sports facility.

Deputy planning chairman Councillor Beryl Jeffery welcomed the decision: Our position has twice been backed by a government inspector following a public inquiry. This is a unique club used by local residents.

It sends out a strong message to any developer that Wandsworth Council will defend valuable local sporting facilities.

Jon Leech, secretary of the rifle club, said: The inspector has reaffirmed the decision made in 1993 at the previous public inquiry.

We now hope they will stop trying to develop this land.

A spokesman for St George said it had yet to study the inspectors report and decide what to do next.

By.Wendy Phillips