Legal challenge to council's housing 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, has 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.
And the debate looks set to continue with the news this week that developers, Henry Davidson Developments Burghfield Common Limited have lodged an appeal against the inspector’s conclusion that the core strategy is sound.
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.
Its appeal will be heard by the Administrative Court - part of the High Court - although a date is yet to be set.
Spokeswoman for West Berkshire Council, Peta Stoddart-Crompton said the appeal will not affect the council’s planning policy in the meantime.
“The council can confirm that it has received one legal challenge to the adopted core strategy. The council will be challenging this claim and is now preparing their evidence in response.
“It is usual, but not always the case, that costs are awarded to the successful party, however this will be up to the court to determine.
“The core strategy has already been adopted by the council and it will remain part of the council's planning policy until the court directs otherwise.”