EIGHT new homes are finally set to be built at Testbourne Community School following a four-year discussion to reach a legal agreement.

In July 2008, the borough council’s development control committee granted planning permission for eight flats and houses, with between two and five bedrooms, on land at the school in Micheldever Road, Whitchurch, subject to the completion of a legal agreement.

But this was not completed until April 19 last year.

In this it was agreed between the borough council, Hampshire County Council and the applicant, to secure contributions towards Basingstoke Environmental Strategy for Transport (BEST), open space provision and playing fields and community facilities.

Documents prepared for the development control committee queried whether it would be correct for the authority to issue a decision based on the committee members’ comments four years ago.

It was recommended that members agree to grant planning permission, which they did earlier this month, subject to conditions.