Developer appeals decision to refuse 26 homes in Highclere

An appeal has been lodged against the decision to refuse plans to build 26 homes in Highclere.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council turned down the homes in October last year on the grounds that it would have a significant impact on the surrounding North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Development company JPP Land had been hoping to build the homes on a site originally targeted five years ago, when the company had plans for 50 homes turned down.

The site is on greenfield land off Andover Road, bordering Westridge, with the southwest corner of the site dedicated to a wildflower field and open space.

The company has now appealed the decision, and interested parties have until July 20 to make representations through the Planning Inspectorate’s website.

JPP Land has been approached for comment.

When originally putting forward the proposals, Douglas Bond of JPP Land said the scheme was “more sensitive” compared to its original plans for 50 homes, describing it as a “sensitive and logical infill” in the village.

He added: “The scheme is being designed so the impact on the AONB is minimised and we would say largely reduced such that there are significant reasons why the proposal could and should be supported.”

However, borough councillors unanimously dismissed the application.

Councillor Angie Freeman (Lab, Winklebury & Manydown) said it wasn’t a “suitable application” due to the lack of sustainable transport links, while Paul Harvey (Ind, Norden) said the integrity of the AONB would be “compromised” by the scale.

He added: “A 13 per cent increase on the settlement total is a significant impact on Highclere.”

The scheme was also criticised by Evingar ward councillors Graham Falconer (Con) and John Izett (Con) for its effect on the AONB.

JPP Land will be hoping to take advantage of the borough council’s lack of a five year housing land supply, which means there is a presumption in favour of sustainable development under the National Planning Policy Framework.