Tolcarne Drive Developments are insisting that their plans for 130 new homes close to Langstone and Chichester harbours will not impact upon the area. Paul Stinthcombe QC is now representing the company in an appeal against the recent decision from Havant Borough Council to turn down the application.
The new estate was set to be erected on land north of Goldring Close Hayling Island but dozens of residents descended on Beacon Church Hall Meridian Centre yesterday to air their concerns and oppose the project.
During the first of a three day hearing Philip Asquith government planning inspector listened to fears regarding significant impact the new buildings will have on these harbour areas. The scheme will also reportedly lead to a loss of two protected trees and the estate was described as being virtually and physically separated if consent was given.
Objections raised concerning flooding in the field were dismissed by Mr Stinthcombe who said the Environment Agency had raised no such concerns. He also addressed the situation of the loss of trees and stated that this could be offset with the planting of new trees. Mr Stinthcombe also claimed the council is well under its housing target with an increasing need for affordable homes.
Council representative Daniel Lucas said the effects of the project should it be given permission but would suffer far reaching consequences.
The hearing reconvenes on Thursday.
