FOUR Marks residents are preparing to "punch above their weight" in the fight against high-density, back-garden development, which they fear could change the rural character of the entire area. As appeals are lodged against East Hampshire District Council's refusal to allow high-density development on two controversial sites along Telegraph Lane, Fight4Four Marks campaigners have vowed to support the council's case by fiercely opposing any development that would open the floodgates to "urban style" infilling. Spurred into action by a sudden awareness of the potential impact of a government planning policy that has given brownfield status to back gardens, Fight4Four Marks campaigners believe that the proposed development of two sites in Telegraph Lane would open the floodgates to what they view as "totally inappropriate high density development". And they are urging local people to register their objections, in writing to the government planning inspectorate, before the cut-off date of December 19. Consideration of the two separate appeals, which will require individual responses, are both to be decided by public inquiries, the dates of which are yet to be set. Romsey-based developer, Antler Homes Wessex Ltd, is appealing against EHDC's refusal to allow the erection of 11 new homes with associated access and parking following the demolition of numbers 54 to 56 Telegraph Lane. (Reference: APP/M1710/A/06/2029282/ NWF). Horsham-based Hillreed Homes Ltd is appealing against a similar refusal for a nine- home development at 37 Telegraph Lane (Ref: APP/M1710/A/06/2028870/NWF) In qualifying the decision to refuse these applications, EHDC planners have given the same basic reason, that the proposals would constitute "a cul-de-sac form of development inappropriate to the road" and result in "a significant level of new build" which would be "at variance with the established form of loose-knit and spacious frontage development". Like the planners, Four Marks campaigners also believe that any such development would "significantly and adversely affect the character of the locality", which would be contrary to local planning policy. And, if permitted, it would "set an undesirable precedent" paving the way for the future urbanisation of a village location. Those wishing to register their comments should write, quoting the appropriate reference, to The Planning Inspectorate, 3/15 Hawk Wing, Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN - letters to arrive not later than December 19. For a guide to planning appeals or to view the details of the plans on line, visit EHDC's website at http://www.easthants.gov.uk">www.easthants.gov.uk Further information may also be obtained from EHDC's planning department on 01730 234241 or 234240.
