MORE than 300 homes will be built on a Basingstoke site after the Government gave the green light to the plans.

Eric Pickles, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, has given Wates go-ahead for 310 homes on Kennel Farm, off the A30 Winchester Road, after over-ruling the wishes of Basingstoke and Deane borough councillors.

Councillors rejected the outline plans last year, after the developer appealed to the planning inspectorate, saying the authority took too long to decide on the application.

In refusing the application, councillors claimed that the development was significant for the area and would lead to over-development. They also pointed to the impact on the environment and local biodiversity and said the development would fail to provide a safe and convenient access for walking and cycling from the site, above.

Mr Pickles’ decision follows a week-long inquiry by planning inspector Jonathan King last November. In a 41-page report, Mr King said: “Outline planning permission is granted for up to 310 residential units comprising one, two, three, four and five-bedroom units, including affordable housing.”

The inspector pointed to the borough’s lack of a five-year land supply and affordable housing, adding: “It is reasonable to conclude that a very substantial amount of new housing will be required to be built in Basingstoke during the Local Plan period, and that a large proportion of it will have to be accommodated on presently undeveloped land.”

Councillor Terri Reid, ward member for Hatch Warren and Beggarwood, said: “I am very disappointed. I spoke at the inquiry and do not think it is a sustainable site.”

Dummer Parish Council chairman Julian Jones added: “Obviously, we are not happy. This decision destroys the rural feel of that area that is enjoyed by dog walkers from Beggarwood and Kempshott, and we think it is unsustainable. It will add to the pressure on local schools which are already fully subscribed.”