OBJECTORS to a controversial planning application in Headley are one step closer to having their voices heard by East Hampshire District Council. It was initially agreed by local ward councillors that the application for four homes near the Badgerswood surgery in Mill Lane could be dealt with under delegated powers – and would not go to the full north planning committee. But following strong arguments from members of the public at last Monday's annual general meeting of Headley Parish Council, a formal request has been sent to the district council asking them to reconsider the decision. District ward councillor Anthony Williams said: "It is clear that many people would like this application to go the complete forum of the north planning committee. "Headley Parish Council were asked to write a formal letter to East Hampshire District Council planners requesting that the application be considered for discussion at committee. "The parish council has now written to the head of planning, Daryl Phillips, to reconsider putting the case to committee." Headley chairman Richard Clifford told The Herald: "It's a difficult situation because as a parish council we don't want to undermine the district councillors who have thought long and hard about the issue. "However, the parishioners had a strong argument and we felt that the voice of the people should be heard in a more open forum." The application has currently received 40 letters of obejection regarding the welfare of the badgers that use a live sett on the site and increased traffice to the area. Residents now await the decision of Daryl Phillips.
