CONTROVERSIAL plans to build five bungalows on green space previously approved for allotments to serve 80 new homes at Grayshott’s Applegarth have been approved by East Hampshire District Council.

The application by Cala Homes triggered 45 objections and was referred to the planning committee by Grayshott ward member Ferris Cowper because of the proposed loss of green space – contrary to council policy to protect allotments.

Speaking after consent was granted, Councillor Cowper said: “I’m extremely angry about the decision.

“The new allotments that we fought hard to win from the developers of the main Applegarth Vale development are now to be concreted over by these houses without ever being created.

“The five dwellings are not required for Grayshott either as market houses or as ‘affordable’. The draft local plan is clear, the Grayshott housing need is fully met so these are not needed at all. ”

Villager Keith Gillett spoke out against the plan at the meeting on behalf of West of Grayshott Conservation Group, Grayshott Society and more than 1,000 signatories to the Mind the Gap petition.

Mr Gillett said: “Applegarth Vale, approved only after much debate, has destroyed a considerable part of the protected Local Gap. We must not lose any more.

“Our petition illustrates the extent of public concern for green spaces and for Grayshott creeping towards a combined settlement with Headley Down.

“Applegarth Vale was approved as an ‘exception site’ in the gap. Green space approved for allotments should be retained.”