Pincents Hill decision 'a victory for localism'

Alok Sharma, MP for Reading West, has welcomed the decision to refuse a planning application for 165 dwellings on Pincents Hill.

“I have been campaigning to protect the Pincents Hill since before I was elected as the Member of Parliament for Reading West in 2010 and I know just how much local people care about this site,” he said. “I am delighted that local voices were heard loud and clear – a clear victory for localism!”

He paid tribute to the efforts of local community groups and councillors in stopping the application.

The Save Pincents Hill Committee said: “We are greatly relieved at the outcome and very grateful to all those people who supported the campaign to save the hill from development.

"A debt of gratitude to our MP who has been there for us over the past (now some 15 years even before his MP membership), we cannot begin to thank him and his staff enough for their help. ”

The plans were unanimously rejected at West Berkshire’s eastern area planning committee meeting on Wednesday with increased traffic and congestion key among the reasons.

Jo Stewart (Con, Tilehurst Birch Copse) said: “Councillor Tony Linden and I are absolutely thrilled at the decision.

"This is an amazing example of the community coming together to act against a proposed development they feel will impact adversely on the area in which they live and work, as well as a wonderful natural green space which improves their health and wellbeing. A stunning result.”

Jonny Anstead, company director of developer TOWN, said: “We are surprised and disappointed with the result, against the officers’ recommendation. Granting permission would have helped many local residents who are stuck in unsuitable accommodation achieve their dream of getting a home of their own.

“Some 66 of the 165 homes would have been available at below market rent or shared ownership to meet the needs of young families and key workers.

“The wider community would also have benefitted through a new healthcare hub and a 22-acre public park.

“We would like to thank officers for their strong recommendation to the committee for approval and will be very interested to read the final wording of the decision notice before considering our next steps.”