RESIDENTS in Headley and the surrounding area remain sceptical about plans to build on Standford Grange Farm, following an announcement by East Hampshire District Council (EHDC). At a packed residents' meeting on Saturday, April 26, the chief executive of EHDC, Will Godfrey, told residents there were no plans to build homes on the county council-owned Standford Grange. Since the news that Bordon and its surrounding area could stand to gain thousands of new homes as the Ministry Of Defence (MOD) pulls out of the town, Headley residents have feared they could see an influx of new developments. However, Mr Godfrey said: "Based on the opportunities viable for 4,000 to 5,500 houses, there are no plans to build residential homes on Standford Farm." This announcement has done little to allay the fears of residents and local councillors. Chairman of Headley Parish Council, Richard Clifford, said: "Obviously this news is welcome, but we will have to watch this very carefully. "We have been very concerned about plans for Standford Grange Farm for some time. "The 'Whitehill-Bordon Opp-ortunity' will have a direct impact on land in Headley parish - our residents' voices must be heard and our parish council must have a seat at that table." County Councillor Adam Carew said: "Will Godfrey's statement this weekend that there will be no houses built on the county-council farmland at Hollywater and Standford is sensational news. "This announcement comes as a complete surprise and is a real victory for common sense. "I flagged this issue up last year with Whitehill and Headley parish councillors. We have been very concerned about this area's future, as have local residents. "There is also the impact on Site Of Special Scientific Interest National Trust land at Passfield Common to consider. We value our green spaces and countryside in Whitehill and Bordon and I know Standford and Headley residents feel exactly the same. Personally I am delighted. This is a tremendous result." The county land has been offered as part of the Whitehill-Bordon Opportunity - the future options for the area which have arisen as a result of the MoD's plan to leave Bordon. Depending on the housing levels finally agreed on, the land could be used: As an alternative to the ecologically sensitive Special Protection Area at Woolmer and Broxhead; for playing fields, education or leisure facilities, or it could be retained for farming.
