AN APPEAL against the refusal to build 95 new homes in Sherfield-on-Loddon has been branded an “aggressive move” by developers to test Basingstoke and Deane’s local plan.

As previously reported in The Gazette, the borough council had refused developers Gladman Developments Ltd permission to build on land off Goddards Lane as it was contrary to the recently approved local plan.

However, the developers have appealed against the decision in a bid to force through the development.

On Friday more than 50 residents aired their concerns at a Sherfield-on-Loddon Parish Council meeting about the impact the development would have if the appeal is overturned.

Chair of the meeting and ward councillor, Cllr Venetia Rowland said: “I am disappointed that Gladman have placed an appeal against the decision, it is an aggressive move from them challenging the local plan.

“What I have seen is that everyday people are getting fed up of developments being approved, and I am hopeful that the planning inspector will uphold the refusal.”

In an appeal document sent to the borough council, Gladman Developments stated it is working to gather evidence to prove the site is suitable for development.

In the document it said: “Evidence will be provided to demonstrate that any impacts of the appeal proposals do not, when taken individually or cumulatively, ‘significantly and demonstrably’ outweigh the benefits of the scheme. There are no specific policies of the framework which would either preclude or restrict the development and in the circumstances, the framework directs that planning permission should be granted.”

The appeal will now go to a public enquiry which will be held in June next year, where residents are encouraged to attend and give their views.