"BLAND, boring and unattractive" is how plans for a housing estate to be built in the town have been described. The development is set to be built on land at Meadowlands in Midhurst Road. But residents and councillors have hit out at the plans which they claim will put increasing pressure on Haslemere's roads and amenities. Resident Robert Serman, who is also the president of The Haslemere Society, the local watchdog which comments on developments in the town, spoke out about one of the latest controversial developments in and around Haslemere. Speaking at last week's Haslemere Town Council planning and highways committee meeting, Mr Serman said: "The plans are for bland, boring housing at the minimum cost, for maximum profit. "It should be regarded as a privilege to build homes in Haslemere, not a right." Mr Serman, who lives in neighbouring Courtsmount Road, also highlighted the large number of trees that would be felled. He added: "These detailed plans show that a number of mature trees will be felled before the construction of this site. "Although developers have suggested replacing some with much smaller specimens, it is of little consolation if 100-year-old trees are being removed." The town council was quick to back up Mr Serman's fears concerning the development. Jean Arrick told the committee: "The design is a problem. It's not attractive and being so close to the centre of town, the unique appeal of Haslemere will be lost." Mayor Michael Dover added his views at the meeting: "This development is seriously out of character with the town and is another example of bland architecture." Mr Serman also expressed fears over the number of cars the new estate would bring to the area. "Although developers may not expect it, realistically, 45 homes will bring far more than 45 cars. "With little parking space at the moment, this will put increasing pressure on the town." Patricia Hills, told the meeting: "The road out of the estate will come out on to one of the busiest roads in Haslemere, which is also the main lorry route through the town." Waverley Borough Council has received 47 objections to the current planning application and should make a final decision on the detail of the plans by July 2.
