Andy - don't sit on your laurels just yet.
What's the odds on an appeal followed by multi application submittal.
If it's anything like the local council where I live, the builder will keep submitting till they get an approval (could be via bully boy Mr Presscoat).
Part way through development the plans will then get changed to incorporate or remove a large chunk of the works.
Keep your eyes peeled and best of luck.
It's not paranoia, just experience.