Court date set for appeal against council's planning policy

After seven years of discussions, consultations and public hearings, West Berkshire Council’s core strategy, a planning document which includes proposals to build at least 10,500 new homes in the district by 2026, was adopted by district councillors in July.
The document, which was found sound by the Government-appointed independent inspector Simon Emerson following a public hearing in May, caused controversy because it includes plans to build up to 2,000 homes on Sandleford Park (pictured) – a proposal supported by the Conservatives but opposed by Liberal Democrats.
The debate will continue on June 12 next year, when housing developer, Henry Davidson Developments Burghfield Common Limited challenges the council’s planning document at the Administrative Court, which is part of the High Court.
Henry Davidson Developments Burghfield Common Limited represent T A Saunders Trustees, who want to build a 2,879 sq m supermarket, 60 bed care home, pub, nursery, five two bedroom apartments as well as 465 sq m of retail space on land north east of Firlands Farm, Hollybush Lane, Burghfield Common.
Henry Davidson Developments Burghfield Common Limited’s plans for Firlands Farm were not included in the core strategy.
The hearing is expected to last one day, according to West Berkshire Council spokeswoman Peta Stoddart-Crompton.
Henry Davidson Developments Burghfield Common Limited did not respond with a comment.