There will be no bridal way to a Somerset farm, thanks to efforts by campaigners.

Owners of a former organic butchery and shop at Brook Farm in the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty had applied for permission to turn the centre into a wedding venue. South Somerset Council rejected the bid.

The access track to the farm lies on common land and members of the Open Spaces Society pointed out that any motor vehicles using the route to such a venue would be breaking the law.

The applicant for planning permission had originally wanted to asphalt the rough track to improve access.

Peter Kidner, the Open Spaces Society’s South Somerset representative, said: “We strongly objected to any such alteration of the common. This would have enabled much faster vehicle speeds, and resulted in a significant and concentrated increase in traffic, particularly at weekends, to the detriment of the public’s enjoyment of this open access land; it would have shattered the peace and tranquillity of the area.

“In addition, we pointed out that the right to use a motor vehicle on common land is restricted to private or agricultural use only, so any wedding guests using the track would be committing a criminal offence. The district council’s solicitor agreed with us.

“We are delighted that this application has been rejected.”

The track has been registered as common land since 1984. It forms part of the old common under Neroche Forest.

The council rejected the application on the grounds of reliance on private-car use contrary to council policy; an increase in noise and disturbance; and the substandard nature of access via local roads and the track.

Any works on common land require the Secretary of State’s approval.