A PLANNING application to build a detached dwelling and car port with a new vehicular access from A343 has been approved by the Basingstoke council, despite objections from neighbours regarding the access.

The plan to build the house on Mount Road in Highclere has been unanimously approved by the council after finding that Hampshire Highways has made no objections.

Cllr Nicholas Robinson, the chair of development control committee, said: “As long as there are no objection from the Highways, I don’t see any good reasons to object to this plan.”

The planning officer had recommended the application be approved subject to certain conditions.

Following a debate, the officer added an additional condition and asked the applicant to not build a gate in the first six metres from the highway.

James Leeson, one of the neighbours, objected to the plan on behalf of three surrounding properties, and said: “We have two primary concerns – the access to the A343 speed and privacy.

“Ninety percent of Andover Road in Highclere is a 30mph zone. As you exit the north of the village it increases to 40mph on a straight piece of road heading down the hill for the remaining 300 metres. Residents have been in dialogue with the parish council and highways regarding this. When vehicles pass the 30 to 40mph sign, they accelerate. The proposed driveway is located approximately 150 metres past this 40mph sign on the downhill slope, which we feel is dangerous.

“[Regarding privacy], it isn't just from inside the properties. It impacts the privacy to our gardens as well. The new development it's much higher looking down over Briarwood Cottage. This will create a reduction of light into and will not safeguard current living conditions.”

The applicant Peter Left also spoke before the committee, defending his plan.

The committee found no reason to refuse the application.

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